Damian Lillard’s Emotional Return to Portland Trail Blazers After Bucks Exit
Sarah Johnson
July 20, 2025
Brief
Damian Lillard reunites with the Portland Trail Blazers on a three-year deal after being waived by the Bucks, marking an emotional return to Rip City.
In a surprising turn of events, Damian Lillard, the nine-time NBA All-Star, is heading back to where it all began—the Portland Trail Blazers. Earlier this month, the Milwaukee Bucks waived the star guard, and now, Lillard is finalizing a three-year deal to reunite with the franchise that drafted him and where he spent the first 11 seasons of his illustrious career.
Lillard, who holds the record for the most points in Trail Blazers history, couldn’t hide his excitement about the homecoming. Taking to social media, he posted a video showcasing the lockers of several Blazers players, including his iconic No. 0, with the caption "RipCityyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!!!" The video wrapped up with a simple, heartfelt message: "Together Again."
However, fans might have to wait to see Dame back in action. Still recovering from an Achilles tear sustained during the NBA playoffs in late April, Lillard is likely to miss the entire 2025-26 season. Meanwhile, the financial side of his career remains robust—Milwaukee still owes him $113 million, to be paid over the next five years, and his salary for the upcoming season will soar to $70 million, combining earnings from both Portland and Milwaukee deals.
For the Trail Blazers, Lillard’s return comes at a critical time. Last season, the team struggled without their star, finishing with a disappointing 36-46 record and missing the playoffs. While other NBA contenders showed interest, Lillard opted for the familiarity and legacy he built in Portland. This reunion isn’t just a contract—it’s a full-circle moment for one of basketball’s most loyal talents.
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Editor's Comments
Well, Damian Lillard’s return to Portland is the kind of plot twist even Hollywood couldn’t script! The Bucks let him go, and now Rip City gets their hero back—though with that Achilles injury, it’s more like a slow-motion reunion. Here’s a thought: if Lillard’s No. 0 jersey could talk, it’d probably say, ‘Took you long enough to bring me home!’ Let’s hope the Blazers can rebuild around their legend before he starts dribbling with a cane.
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