Clingan goes to Portland in first round of NBA draft

Not long-ago Donovan Clingan signs his national letter of intent alongside his sister, Olivia and father, Bill. | Laura Bailey Photo

Bristol’s Donovan Clingan, two-time NCAA men’s basketball champion with UConn, was the seventh pick of the 2024 NBA draft. He was chosen by the Portland Trail Blazers.

Clingan was dressed in a black tuxedo with white shirt and black bow tie. After being named, he pointed up, as has been his way of acknowledging the presence of his late mother, Stacey Porrini Clingan. Later, he opened his jacket to reveal a lining that had been created from photos of his mother.

Among those on hand to celebrate with Clingan were his father, Bill, and UConn men’s basketball coach, Dan Hurley, both of whom exchanged hugs when his name was called.

Preceding Clingan in the draft, in order of selection are:

  • Zaccharie Risacher, Atlanta Hawks
  • Alex Sarr, Washington Wizards
  • Reed Sheppard, Houston Rockets
  • Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs
  • Matas Buzelis, Detroit Pistons
  • Tidjane Salaun, Charlotte Hornets.


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