“That’s really who I am”- Damian Lillard speaks out on people criticizing him for showing loyalty to stay in Portland

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2 years ago

Damian Lillard spoke up after he is continuously criticized for not leaving the Portland Trail Blazers due to his loyalty.

Damian Lillard has been heavily criticized over the years for his decision to stay in Portland. The Blazers have never been a championship contender, but still, Dame has never thought of leaving the franchise.

Lillard recently signed another extension with the Blazers, and it seems like he is likely to end his career in Portland. He believes winning a championship isn’t everything, and he wants to build his legacy in Portland.

So far he has done pretty well in Portland and is likely to continue the same. Even though he might not win a championship here, he will go down as one of the best to ever play for the Portland Trail Blazers.

Talking about it, Damian Lillard said, “Something that’s missing in our league is the character, the fight, the passion, and pride about not just the name on the back, but the name on the front… I haven’t pretended to embrace it, that’s really who I am.”

Damian Lillard will be playing in a new look Blazers team next season

Damian Lillard won’t be playing alongside CJ McCollum anymore in Portland. His best friend was traded to the Pelicans last season, which saw the Blazers welcoming Josh Hart on board.

_{PORTLAND, OR – JANUARY 9: Anfernee Simons #1 of the Portland Trail Blazers looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on January 9, 2022 at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Sam Forencich/NBAE via Getty Images)}

Next season, the Blazers will have a more balanced team. Anfernee Simons has continued his surge to the top and is looking like a good player for them. The inclusion of Jeremi Grant and Josh Hart will provide a good defense to their team around Lillard, and that could turn out fruitful for them.

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