LaMarcus Aldridge thanks Blazers fans in email to columnist

Shortly after agreeing to a deal with the San Antonio Spurs, LaMarcus Aldridge thanked fans in Portland for supporting him during his time with the Trail Blazers.

Local columnist John Canzano, who defended Aldridge's choice to leave Portland, showed the email he received Saturday night.

Dear Rip City, Thank you!

Those two words on a page don't begin to express the gratitude I have for the opportunity the entire Trail Blazers organization, my teammates, the media, and you fans gave me. The past nine years have been a blessing, and I will take all of the valuable memories with me as I head back home.

As I'm sure you can respect, my decision was a very personal one but not one I took lightly. Although I will be wearing a different uniform the next time I come back to Portland, please know that I will always hold my time in a Blazers uniform near and dear to my heart.

Your friend, LA

Aldridge, the most coveted player in NBA free-agency this summer, agreed to a four-year, $80 million deal with San Antonio.