Trail Blazers Owner Paul Allen Dies Aged 65

Portland Trail Blazers owner Paul Allen died on Monday aged 65 as a result of complications of non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Paul Allen had been the Trail Blazers owner since 1988.

His sister, Jody Allen, paid tribute to him in a statement:

“My brother was a remarkable individual on every level,” she said.

“While most knew Paul Allen as a technologist and philanthropist, for us he was a much loved brother and uncle, and an exceptional friend.

“Paul’s family and friends were blessed to experience his wit, warmth, his generosity and deep concern. For all the demands on his schedule, there was always time for family and friends. At this time of loss and grief for us – and so many others – we are profoundly grateful for the care and concern he demonstrated every day.”

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NBA commissioner Adam Silver also weighed in, describing Allen as “a valued voice”.

“Paul Allen was the ultimate trail blazer – in business, philanthropy and in sports,” Silver said via release.

“As one of the longest-tenured owners in the NBA, Paul brought a sense of discovery and vision to every league matter large and small.  He was generous with his time on committee work, and his expertise helped lay the foundation for the league’s growth internationally and our embrace of new technologies.  He was a valued voice who challenged assumptions and conventional wisdom and one we will deeply miss as we start a new season without him. Our condolences go to his family, friends and the entire Trail Blazers organization.”

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After co-founding Microsoft with Bill Gates in the 1970’s, Allen went on to become one of the world’s wealthiest men.

He bought the Portland Trail Blazers in 1988 for a sum of $70 million. He also owned the Seattle Seahawks of the NFL and a share of the Seattle Sounders FC in the MLS.