SEATTLE (AP) _ A horn malfunction delayed Friday night's game between the Portland Trail Blazers and Seattle SuperSonics for 15 minutes late in the third quarter.

The horn began to sound during a stop in play with 1 minute, 6 seconds remaining on the clock. When it became apparent it wasn't going to immediately stop, players returned to their benches and officials conferred near midcourt.

The horn finally stopped when team officials turned off the scoreboard above center court. But the game was held up for another 10 minutes as technicians continued to work on the problem and referees spoke to coaches.

Sonics chairman Howard Schultz left his courtside seat and approached the scoring table to investigate. An acrobatic team that had performed at halftime returned to the floor, drawing cheers.

Players stayed on the floor, jumping to stay loose or just standing near the benches.

The game resumed with the scoreboard turned off, but with smaller clocks above the 24-second clocks functioning.