On Wednesday night at Portland’s Moda Center, Damian Lillard, who spent 11 seasons as a player with the Portland Trail Blazers, will square off against his old team. In addition to Adidas naming the gymnasium court at their Portland offices in his honor, Lillard stated that he felt emotional upon returning and did not rule out a future reunion with Portland, according to Aaron Fentress of The Oregonian.
While Lillard was a member of the Portland Trail Blazers, he rose to prominence in the NBA. securing his spot among the league’s elite players and, in the process, improving the organization. He didn’t win an NBA championship during his tenure in Portland, though, and he currently plays for the Milwaukee Bucks following several postseason exits.
It’s interesting to note that NBA fans expressed strong opinions in response to his remarks during the interview on X.
“Bro’s fed up with Giannis already.”
The Bucks are now a formidable оffensive threаt in the NBA thanks to Lillard’s arrival to the team. particularly while playing the best teams in the league. Even yet, he isn’t producing on the floor as much as he did when he played for the Trail Blazers.
This season, the eight-time All-Star is averaging 6.8 assists, 4.3 rebounds, and 25.1 points (42.2% shooting, including 34.7% from 3-point range) per game.
The way Milwaukee is playing right now makes it appear as though Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard have not yet reached their peak, a fact that fans will laugh at. Nevertheless, with the Bucks in second place (32-15) in the Eastern Conference standings, the two are still working things out.
Damian Lillard discussed his career as a Portland Trail Blazers player.
Damian Lillard discussed the close relationship he still has with Portland in the same conversation with Aaron Fentress of The Oregonian.
Because I care, I think it will be emotional, Lillard added. “I cherished performing in Portland. I still reside there since I enjoyed it there. I’m not much of a cryer. I don’t think I’ll be in tears and everything. However, I’m concerned. I really did meаn everything I have said about my time playing in Portland. Thus, indeed, it will be.
Lillard continued, “The Blazers simply weren’t in a position where winning a championship was feasible, or what could be accomplished at the time. I’d like to be able to play for that while I’m being my best.
Apart from his time spent playing for the Trail Blazers, he cherished his personal development there to the extent that the city came to feel like home.
Even though he was unable to win a championship for the team, Lillard admits that despite their best efforts, they were simply unable to put themselves in a position to win one.
The Bucks player expressed excitement not only about playing against his old team but also about the simple sensation of returning home to find his family and children waiting for him. Despite the differences, Damian Lillard will always hold a particular place in his heart for Portland.