[In November 1984, the Portland Trail Blazers' "eastern campaign" had teams in New York and the Great Lakes region on edge, not because the Trail Blazers were on a winning streak—in fact, they lost several games—but because Ah Gan frequently collided with opponents during the games. His football player-like strength and impact were intimidating. The style of play on the basketball courts in the '80s was no longer as violent as in the '70s, following the warning bell sounded by Kermit Washington's infamous punch. The crafty players down low became adept at using subtle moves and covertly dirty defensive actions to gain an advantage, but Ah Gan sent them sprawling.