Lillard: “I loved the Blazers”

Full of strong emotions, both for the team, but not only, Damian Lillard returns to Portland ahead of the Bucks’ game against the Blazers.

“I loved the Blazers organization. I loved everyone who came to work together and I think what made it harder is that it wasn’t a broken relationship,” first commented Lillard, who played in Portland for 11 seasons before being traded to Milwaukee last summer.

The Bucks arrived in Portland on Monday night, and on Tuesday, “Dame” was honored at Adidas’ North American headquarters, with which he works with and has his own shoe.

Always Home.??PDX

In honor of @Dame_Lillard and the lasting impact he’s had on the city of Portland, the basketball court at our US headquarters will forever be known as the Always Home Court.#adidasBasketball pic.twitter.com/o1sYBYqsvF

— adidas Basketball (@adidasHoops) January 31, 2024

“The reason all of this came about in the first place was for a chance to win everything. We couldn’t be in the same place at the same time” said the eight-time All Star, who will play as a starter for the first time in his career this year in Indiana.

“It was just a difficult situation for him. But he never complained about it. He’s just a soldier. He came to work and did his best every time. I respect that for himsaid Blazers coach Chauncey Billups, who admitted it will be strange to see Lillard in Portland in a different jersey but is happy for his friend.

“I’m back with love and I’m excited to play at the Moda Center again. I have played so many games here that I recognize the faces of the fans sitting in the stadium. So seeing their faces, going back to the building, going back to my house, I’m excited to play the game and play without stress“, were the words of the 33-year-old Bucks point guard who is looking forward to the game against his former team.

Editor: Makis Theotokatos