MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- The sounds of roaring fans and bouncing basketballs echoed through the halls of Camp Pendleton’s Paige Field house, during a Los Angeles Clippers opening scrimmage, Oct. 3.

The third annual trip was scheduled in preparation for the upcoming basketball season. The Clippers held the scrimmage to show their support to service members and their families.

“The Clippers love to come out to Camp Pendleton every year to support the troops,” said Moriah M. Snyder, community relations manager, Los Angeles Clippers, National Basketball Association. “It’s important to reach back to the community that supports us.”

Players such as 2009 first-round draft pick Blake Griffin, Chris Kaman and Eric Bledsoe showed their skills and entertained the crowd of families with slam-dunks and rebounds.

The event started with a team introduction, followed by the scrimmage. At halftime the Clippers’ Spirit dance team and Fan Patrol entertained the crowd with a dance performance and special giveaways.

“This is a great opportunity for base residents to get up close with the players,” said Phil Bryant, athletic director, Marine Corps Community Services, Camp Pendleton. “Many never really get a chance to get in this intimate of a setting with the players.”

After the game, the players were available for fans to get autographs and pictures. A lucky few received a hat as a part of the giveaway.

“It was great to see the Clippers come out and play for us,” said Lance Cpl. Christopher J. Galliher, postal clerk, Headquarters and Service Battalion, MCB Camp Pendleton. “It isn’t everyday that an NBA team comes to a military base.”

This was an outstanding opportunity for service members and their families to see what the season will hold for the Clippers, and hopes the turnout for next year will be just as supportive, said Snyder.

For more information on the Los Angeles Clippers visit their website at www.clippers.com.