Daily Facts: Damian Lamonte Ollie Lillard Sr

Basic Profile

Starred at Weber State University (2008–2012), earning multiple Big Sky Player of the Year awards.
Named NBA Rookie of the Year in 2013 after being drafted 6th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers.

On July 1, 2025, the Bucks waived and stretched his remaining $113–$122M contract over 5 years to free salary cap space.
Will continue receiving ~$22.5M per year while rehabbing, effectively becoming an unrestricted free agent.

The move gives Lillard the freedom to choose his next landing spot—he's reportedly “elated” about the newfound autonomy.
Top suitors emerging:
- Miami Heat – longtime franchise interest resurfacing.
- Golden State Warriors – another team reportedly in pursuit.
Industry sentiment: Lillard is not expected to sign anywhere for 2025–26, focusing on rehab and waiting to return healthy in 2026–27.

9× NBA All‑Star (2014, 2015, 2018–2021, 2023–2025).
All‑NBA Teams: 1 First Team, 4 Second Team, 2 Third Team.
Twice won the NBA Three‑Point Contest (2023, 2024).
Scored a career-high 71 points in a 2023 game—oldest player at 32 to hit 70 in an NBA game.
Franchise-leading scorer in Portland history, ranking 4th all-time in NBA three-pointers (2,804).

Traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023 .
Suffered a torn Achilles tendon during the 2025 playoffs; underwent surgery in May.
In early July 2025, the Bucks waived him via the stretch provision to free cap space for signing Myles Turner—while Lillard continues to receive his remaining $113M over 5 years.
Lillard reportedly feels “elated” to have the freedom to choose his next NBA destination, with interest already emerging from contenders like the Miami Heat and Golden State Warriors.

Suffered a torn left Achilles tendon on April 27, 2025, during Game 4 of the first-round playoffs against Indiana. Underwent successful surgery on May 2, performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache and Dr. Carole Vetter.
Rehab is progressing positively—Lillard has begun light mobility and strength exercises, including treadmill walking.
NBA insiders like Chris Haynes report that Lillard is motivated and in good spirits, aiming for a full recovery amid a 9–12 month rehab timeline.
Doc Rivers suggested he could potentially return late in the season, putting realistic expectations around spring/summer 2026.

Nicknamed “Dame Time” for delivering clutch performances.
Accomplished rapper under the moniker Dame D.O.L.L.A., with albums like The Letter O charting on Billboard.
Entrepreneurial ventures include the Adidas Dame shoe line and a social media initiative.