Frustrating Start for Olowokandi

Consistency continues to be a problem for Clipper center Michael Olowokandi.

He’s capable of grabbing 16 rebounds in a game, as he did in a season-opening loss to Seattle, then pulling down only one, as he did the next night in a loss at Portland.

Olowokandi is averaging a team-high three blocked shots, but his six-point scoring average is far from all-star material, especially for the No. 1 overall pick of the 1998 draft.

Getting off to a slow start has been frustrating for Olowokandi, but he’s optimistic about getting more into the flow of the Clippers’ offense.

“After the Philadelphia game [when he went scoreless in 25 minutes] and the team remained confident in me, I felt better because I knew it’s only going to be a matter of time before my shots start going in,” said Olowokandi, who blocked six shots against the 76ers.

Olowokandi’s offense looked better Monday night against Utah as he made four of eight shots and finished with 10 points and four rebounds. Coach Chris Ford said his second-year big man is slowly improving.

“He keeps working on his [post moves] and they are getting a little better,” Ford said. “It’s an ongoing process. . . . There shouldn’t be any hesitation once the ball comes into the post.”

TONIGHT

San Antonio, 7:30

Fox Sports West 2

* Site--Staples Center.

* Radio--KCTD (1540).

* Records--Clippers 1-3, Spurs 4-1.

* Record vs. Spurs (1999)--0-3.

* Update--The Clippers have lost eight in a row to San Antonio. Their last victory over the Spurs was on Dec. 4, 1997. The Clippers will be without point guard Eric Murdock (right knee) and Eric Piatkowski (ribs) because of injuries.

* Tickets--(213) 745-0400 or (213) 480-3232.