Damian Lillard Breaks Silence After Being Waived by Bucks: ‘It Definitely Was a Shocker, I Didn’t See It Coming’
In a move that sent shockwaves throughout the NBA, the Milwaukee Bucks waived superstar guard Damian Lillard—a decision that few, including Lillard himself, saw coming. The seven-time All-Star, who was acquired less than a year ago in a blockbuster trade with the Portland Trail Blazers, addressed the surprising separation publicly for the first time on Wednesday, calling it “a shocker” and opening up about his emotions and what may come next.
Lillard, speaking during a podcast interview and in a brief media scrum after a private workout in Los Angeles, expressed both disappointment and understanding regarding the Bucks’ decision.
“It definitely was a shocker,” Lillard said. “I didn’t expect it, especially after the way the season ended. But this is a business. That’s something you always hear, but now I’ve really felt it.”
A Sudden Split
Lillard’s tenure with the Bucks lasted just one season. After arriving with sky-high expectations and pairing up with two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee hoped the Lillard-Giannis duo would form an unstoppable 1-2 punch capable of leading the franchise to another title.
However, the 2024 season fell short of those expectations. Plagued by injuries, defensive inconsistencies, and a lack of bench production, the Bucks were bounced in the second round of the playoffs—well short of their championship goal.
Despite flashes of brilliance from Lillard, including several 30-point performances and a clutch game-winner against Boston in March, Milwaukee’s front office ultimately decided to go in a new direction. According to sources close to the team, salary cap concerns, aging roster pieces, and long-term planning factored into the stunning move.
Lillard’s Reaction: “I Thought We’d Run It Back”
Lillard made it clear he was caught off guard by the timing and nature of the decision.
“I really thought we’d run it back,” he said. “Obviously we didn’t win it all, but I felt like we had something building. Me and Giannis were getting more comfortable playing together, and I was getting used to the system. So to wake up and see that I’d been waived… yeah, it hit hard.”
Asked whether he had any warning signs, Lillard said communication had been minimal after the season ended, though he didn’t suspect anything serious was brewing.
“You expect changes when you don’t win. But waived? That word hit different. I’m not going to lie.”
The Business Behind the Decision
From a financial perspective, Milwaukee’s decision to waive Lillard frees up over $50 million in salary, although a significant chunk remains on the books depending on the structure of his contract. The Bucks are clearly looking to retool around Giannis with younger, more versatile pieces, particularly on the defensive end.
General Manager Jon Horst issued a statement thanking Lillard for his time with the team and calling the move “a difficult but necessary step toward building for the future.”
“Damian is a world-class competitor and leader,” Horst said. “We’re grateful for what he brought to Milwaukee, both on and off the court. This decision allows us the flexibility to reshape our roster while giving Damian the freedom to explore opportunities that align with his goals.”
Giannis Reacts
Giannis Antetokounmpo, who developed a strong rapport with Lillard over the course of the season, posted a cryptic Instagram story shortly after the news broke: a single broken heart emoji over a black background.
He later expanded on his feelings while speaking to Greek media.
“Damian is a brother. I respected his work, his character, everything. It’s sad to see him go. But the team made a choice, and we move forward.”
The chemistry between the two stars had been a work in progress, with both adjusting their styles to accommodate each other. Many believed a second season together would have yielded far better results.
What’s Next for Dame?
Despite the abrupt ending in Milwaukee, Damian Lillard’s NBA career is far from over. The 34-year-old guard is still considered one of the league’s most lethal scorers and floor generals. Multiple teams, including the Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, and Philadelphia 76ers, have reportedly expressed interest in signing him should he clear waivers or be open to a buyout restructuring.
Lillard made it clear he’s not ready to retire.
“I’ve still got a lot of game left,” he said. “I’m not bitter. I’ve been through a lot in my career. This is just another chapter.”
He added that his next destination will depend on “fit, culture, and respect.”
“At this point in my career, it’s not just about the money. It’s about competing. I want to be somewhere I’m wanted and can help lead. I’ve never been scared of pressure or expectations.”
Reflections on His Milwaukee Chapter
Lillard was gracious in reflecting on his time in Milwaukee, praising the fanbase and his teammates.
“The city showed me love. The fans embraced me even though I wasn’t drafted there. I felt like part of the family. It sucks that it was short, but I don’t regret it.”
He also gave a shoutout to Bucks head coach Doc Rivers for his leadership during a challenging season.
“Doc is a real one. He was honest, he challenged me, and he trusted me. That meant a lot.”
League-Wide Reactions
Around the NBA, players and analysts reacted with shock and sympathy. Former teammate CJ McCollum tweeted, “No way. Dame waived? Wow. Cold game.”
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski called it “a surprising and brutal move that signals the Bucks are ready to fully reshape their roster.”
Kendrick Perkins added, “Milwaukee’s going to regret this. You don’t just waive a Hall of Famer like Dame. Respect matters.”
Damian Lillard’s journey has always been marked by loyalty, resilience, and authenticity. From spending over a decade in Portland to embracing a late-career move to chase a ring in Milwaukee, his path has never been easy—but it’s always been true to who he is.
While this chapter with the Bucks ends on a sour note, Lillard’s next move could bring him closer to the championship he has long pursued.
“One thing I’ve learned,” Lillard said, “is you can’t control everything. But you can keep showing up, keep working, and stay ready. That’s what I’m going to do.”
Wherever he lands next, you can bet Damian Lillard will bring the same fire, leadership, and clutch gene that made him one of the NBA’s most respected players.
