PORTLAND, Ore. — Damian Lillard returns strong to the Portland Trail Blazers, setting off a wave of celebration among Rip City fans. The 35-year-old NBA veteran has signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the team that drafted him in 2012. Though the deal has not been officially announced, a source familiar with the situation confirmed it to The Associated Press under the condition of anonymity.
Damian Lillard returns strong not just in sentiment but with the promise of legacy. His signing marks a significant reunion with the franchise where he became a basketball icon and a city’s beloved leader. The news, first reported by ESPN, has since taken the sports world by storm.
From Rookie to Franchise Legend
The Trail Blazers selected Lillard with the sixth pick in the 2012 NBA Draft. Over the next 11 seasons, he built an unforgettable legacy in Portland. From Rookie of the Year in 2013 to being named one of the NBA’s 75 greatest players in 2021, Lillard’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Damian Lillard returns strong, bringing back memories of his dominant performances—including the unforgettable 71-point game against the Houston Rockets. He averaged 32.2 points in his final season with Portland, setting team records for most points (19,376) and three-pointers (2,387). No other Blazer has scored more than 70 points in a single game.
A Detour with the Milwaukee Bucks
In 2023, Lillard was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks to join forces with Giannis Antetokounmpo in a championship pursuit. However, things didn’t unfold as hoped. Injuries disrupted his season, including a torn left Achilles tendon sustained during the first-round playoffs against the Indiana Pacers. The surgery required afterward puts his 2025–26 season in doubt.
Earlier this month, the Bucks waived him and chose to stretch the remaining $113 million on his contract over five years. But from this challenging twist comes a triumphant return—Damian Lillard returns strong to the team where his legend was born.
Social Media Confirms the Reunion
Lillard confirmed his return with a heartfelt video on Instagram. The clip ends with a locker labeled “Damian Lillard” and the message “Together Again.” His caption, a passionate “RipCityyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!!!”, captured the emotion of the moment.
It’s not just a player returning to a team; it’s a reunion filled with loyalty, redemption, and unfinished business. Damian Lillard returns strong, determined to reconnect with the fanbase that embraced him from day one.
Will Lillard Play Next Season?
Despite the excitement, there’s uncertainty about Lillard’s on-court availability. Due to the Achilles tear, he may miss the entire 2025–26 season. However, this long-term contract indicates the Trail Blazers’ confidence in his recovery and leadership. Damian Lillard returns strong even if the hardwood sees a delay. His presence in the locker room and leadership on the bench will be instrumental in mentoring a young Portland core.
Supporting the New Generation
Portland is currently focusing on youth development, with rising talents like Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe. Lillard’s return is seen as a bridge between the franchise’s celebrated past and its promising future. Damian Lillard returns strong not only as a player but also as a mentor to guide the next wave of Trail Blazers.
This move showcases a strategic blend of experience and potential. By welcoming back their all-time top scorer, Portland gains a veteran presence who knows the culture, fans, and expectations of the franchise.
A Look at the Numbers
Throughout his career, Lillard has consistently delivered. He has averaged 25.1 points and 6.7 assists per game, with nine All-Star appearances to his name. He ranked 10th in the league last season in both scoring (24.9 points) and assists (7.1) despite playing only 58 games due to deep vein thrombosis.
Damian Lillard returns strong statistically and symbolically. No other player in Trail Blazers history has combined clutch performances with community loyalty as Lillard has.
Off-Court Influence and Endorsements
Lillard’s popularity isn’t limited to the basketball court. He’s a cultural figure, entrepreneur, and recording artist. His signature Adidas shoe line continues to thrive, and his connection to Portland extends to corporate partnerships and philanthropic work.
During an event at Adidas’ North American headquarters in 2024, Lillard hinted he might someday return to Portland. Today, that vision has become reality. Damian Lillard returns strong, bringing not only basketball talent but also unmatched star power and marketability.
The Legacy Continues
Though Portland only advanced past four playoff series during Lillard’s first stint, his role in pushing the franchise to the 2019 Western Conference Finals remains one of the highlights. His clutch shots, including multiple playoff game-winners, became the stuff of legend—alongside his now-iconic wrist-pointing celebration known as “Dame Time.”
With this new contract, Damian Lillard returns strong, with hopes of rewriting the playoff narrative and bringing closure to a chapter that never felt truly finished.
Fans React to the News
The announcement sparked immediate reactions on social media. Fans flooded comment sections with expressions of joy, loyalty, and anticipation. “Rip City is whole again,” one fan tweeted, while another wrote, “This is the comeback we needed. Damian Lillard returns strong, and so do we.”
The emotional connection between Lillard and Portland is unlike many in modern sports. His decision to come back reflects mutual respect between player and city.
A Strategic Move by the Trail Blazers
In an NBA era dominated by short-term deals and unpredictable trades, Lillard’s return on a 3-year, $42 million contract is both sentimental and strategic. It shows Portland’s commitment to its culture and fans. Damian Lillard returns strong, offering a stabilizing presence in a team full of emerging stars.
The deal also makes financial sense. With the Bucks absorbing much of Lillard’s old contract, Portland is getting a future Hall of Famer at a reasonable price, even with injury risks involved.
Conclusion: Damian Lillard Returns Strong and So Does Portland
Whether or not he plays a single game next season, Damian Lillard returns strong to the place where his NBA journey began. His signature moments, loyalty, and passion are already part of Portland’s DNA. Now, he has the chance to add another chapter—this time, not just as a superstar, but as a mentor and possible champion.
The reunion of Lillard and the Trail Blazers is more than a transaction; it’s a powerful symbol of legacy, healing, and hope. With Rip City buzzing once more, one thing is certain: Damian Lillard returns strong, and the story is far from over.
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