Damian Lillard Fires Back at Critics of Bucks Tenure, Calls Judgment Unfair, Reflects on Injuries, Playoff Losses, and Redemption Path
In the often unforgiving world of professional basketball, few stars face public scrutiny with as much candor and resolve as Damian Lillard. The former Milwaukee Bucks guard recently broke his silence following his July 2025 release from the franchise, and he didn’t hold back. In a candid interview with The Athletic, Lillard addressed the mounting criticism of his two-year stint in Milwaukee, calling the negative narrative surrounding his time with the team “unfair” and “shortsighted.”
“It’s easy to judge from the outside looking in,” Lillard said. “But unless you’re in that locker room or dealing with what we went through, you really don’t get it.”
All-Star Numbers, Unmet Expectations
Lillard joined the Bucks in a blockbuster trade from the Portland Trail Blazers in September 2023, intended to form a championship duo with Giannis Antetokounmpo. On paper, the move was hailed as a superteam formation, with Lillard’s scoring ability and leadership complementing Giannis’ dominance in the paint.
And Lillard delivered, at least statistically. Over two seasons, he averaged 24.6 points, 7.0 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game, earning All-Star selections both years. He even captured the 2024 NBA All-Star Game MVP with a dazzling 39-point performance that reminded fans and critics alike of his elite skill set.
But the postseason told a different story.
In 2024, the Bucks were eliminated in the first round by a surging Miami Heat squad, despite having home-court advantage. In 2025, injuries derailed the team’s cohesion yet again, culminating in another early exit — this time at the hands of the Cleveland Cavaliers.
“It’s frustrating,” Lillard admitted. “People point to playoff failures like they define everything. But we had injuries. I tore my Achilles. Giannis was dealing with his knee. Khris [Middleton] missed time. That matters.”
The Toll of Transition
Transitioning to a new team after over a decade with the Trail Blazers wasn’t easy. Lillard spent the first 11 years of his NBA career in Portland, building a reputation as one of the league’s most loyal and clutch performers. The move to Milwaukee was as much about chasing a championship as it was about a fresh start.
Still, Lillard said, it took time to adjust.
“I went from being the guy who set the culture to having to learn a new one,” he explained. “That adjustment is hard. It’s not just about basketball—it’s about chemistry, routines, relationships, the offense, the coaching style.”
He also referenced the toll of being under a microscope in a market with high expectations after years of falling short of a championship.
“People said I wasn’t the same Dame. That I lost a step. But I gave everything I had. I played hurt. I showed up.”
The Achilles Tear and Exit
The low point came late in the 2024–25 season, when Lillard suffered a torn Achilles tendon—an injury that effectively ended his season and cast serious doubt on his NBA future. Shortly afterward, Milwaukee waived him to clear cap space, ending a brief but eventful chapter.
“I was shocked, to be honest,” Lillard admitted. “You think you’re part of a long-term plan, and then just like that, it’s over. But that’s the business side.”
Despite the unceremonious exit, Lillard remains grateful for his time in Milwaukee.
“There were good moments—great fans, great teammates. I learned a lot. I don’t regret it.”
Support From Giannis
Though the Bucks front office remained largely silent on the decision, Giannis Antetokounmpo posted a heartfelt message on social media thanking Lillard for his leadership and grit.
“Dame gave everything for this team,” Giannis wrote. “Much respect to a real competitor. Wishing him the best in what’s next.”
Lillard said that meant a lot.
“Me and Giannis built a real bond. We were both trying to make it work, even when things didn’t go our way.”
A New Chapter in Portland
Now back where it all started, Lillard signed a three-year, $42 million deal with the Portland Trail Blazers earlier this month. The contract is structured to allow him time to recover while also mentoring the next wave of Portland talent.
“There’s something poetic about coming full circle,” he said. “I didn’t think I’d be back, but it feels right. I get to heal, reset, and help the young guys grow.”
Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups welcomed the move, calling Lillard’s return “transformative” for a rebuilding team looking for identity and leadership.
“Even if he’s not on the court right away, Dame’s voice matters in our locker room,” Billups said. “He sets the tone.”
The Fire Still Burns
Despite the injury, Lillard isn’t ready to fade quietly into retirement. He’s using the criticism as fuel during his rehab process.
“I’ve heard everything—‘he’s washed,’ ‘he’s done,’” Lillard said. “That just motivates me more. I’ve been doubted before. This isn’t new.”
He plans to return to game shape by mid-season and hopes to play a mentoring role while contributing meaningfully on the court.
“My goal is to come back smarter, stronger, and more focused. I’ve still got something to prove.”
A Legacy Beyond the Numbers
Throughout the interview, Lillard consistently turned the conversation toward impact and legacy rather than just stats or wins.
“People forget, this is a team sport,” he said. “Yes, I want to win. But I also want to inspire. I want to show kids it’s okay to fall and get back up.”
He also hinted at long-term plans beyond basketball, including coaching, philanthropy, and media projects focused on storytelling and community empowerment.
“I’m not just a hooper. I’m a creator, a father, a leader. Basketball is what I do—but it’s not all I am.”
Standing Up for Himself—and Others
Ultimately, Lillard’s candidness reflects a larger trend of NBA players taking control of their narratives in the face of harsh public commentary.
“I’m speaking up because I know other players go through this, too,” he said. “Fans want perfection, but we’re human. We bleed, we hurt, we grow.”
For now, Lillard is focused on recovery, family, and a quiet but determined return to the court in Rip City. And though his Milwaukee chapter ended without a ring, he remains proud of what he gave the city—and undeterred by the noise.
“I played with heart. That’s all I can do. And I’m not done yet.”
