In a recent appearance on the Knuckleheads podcast, Damian Lillard reminisced about his NBA debut against the Los Angeles Lakers, particularly facing off against the legendary Kobe Bryant. Lillard, who made his debut in 2012, showcased his impressive skills, contributing 23 points and 11 assists in a victory for the Portland Trail Blazers over the Lakers.
“That was my first game so he was out there snapping on everybody like he was like a real general out there. Kobe didn’t care who you was, who you thought you was and he was saying what he got to say like he was in charge.”
“Every time I did something, he was the coach. He was telling everybody what to do. Gea was really giving everyone directions.” (1:40)
Lillard acknowledged that his first victim in the league, the player he “busted,” was Steve Nash. Recalling the opening night of his career, Lillard expressed his satisfaction with the significant impact he made on the court.
However, what stood out for Lillard was not just his performance but the experience of sharing the court with Kobe Bryant. Lillard described Bryant as being “hot” during the game and vividly remembered Kobe’s assertive and commanding presence on the court. According to Lillard, Kobe was like a “real general out there,” displaying leadership qualities by directing and instructing teammates, regardless of their status.
The podcast provided a platform for Lillard to reflect on his early encounters with NBA legends and the intensity of facing a prime Kobe Bryant. The Lakers, despite Kobe’s 30-point performance, succumbed to the Trail Blazers with a final score of 116-106.
Lillard’s recollection of playing against Kobe not only highlights the competitive spirit of the NBA but also sheds light on the mentorship and leadership roles assumed by veteran players, even in the midst of on-court battles. The episode offers fans a glimpse into the dynamic interactions and relationships that shape the narratives of NBA players, from rookies facing their idols to the enduring impact of legends like Kobe Bryant.
Damian Lillard Was Stunned At Michael Jordan’s Aura
In a recent episode of the ‘Knuckleheads’ podcast, Milwaukee Bucks superstar Damian Lillard opened up about his awe-inspiring experience being in the presence of basketball legend Michael Jordan during the NBA’s 75th-anniversary All-Star game. Despite Lillard’s 11-year career, the encounter with Jordan left an indelible mark on him.
Lillard, accustomed to interacting with various celebrities throughout his career, noted that the typical All-Star experiences involved conversations and photos with the likes of LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Dirk Nowitzki, Tim Duncan, and Dwight Howard. However, the dynamics shifted when Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar took center stage in the conversation. It was at this moment that Lillard witnessed the arrival of Michael Jordan.
As Jordan approached the group, Lillard described a distinctive aura surrounding the basketball icon. The cameras and attention focused on Jordan surpassed that of all the other players combined, highlighting the unparalleled impact and celebrity status that Jordan maintains, even years after his retirement.
Lillard’s reaction captured the essence of the moment, expressing that despite his own superstar status, he found himself frozen in awe while standing next to Clyde Drexler. The podcast revelation emphasized the transcendent nature of Michael Jordan’s legacy, not just within the realm of basketball but on a global scale. Jordan’s mere presence at the All-Star event became a spectacle, reinforcing his status as the greatest of all time and a figure whose influence extends far beyond the basketball court.
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