While the basketball world pays attention to the NBA Finals with razor focus, one person isn’t likely to stay glued to their television sets. Damian Lillard, the Portland superstar currently on duty with Team USA isn’t watching the NBA Finals at the moment. Lillard, who got knocked out of the NBA playoffs in the first round for the second year in a row, finds it difficult to watch the NBA Finals when he isn’t part of it, or even close to it.
When speaking with Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports, Lillard revealed that he just can’t bring himself to watch the Finals. While he catches parts and glimpses of the games, but never a full game in its entirety. While he is appreciative of his new experience with Team USA and the upcoming Olympic games, he wants to be under that NBA Finals spotlight.
“I haven’t really watched the games except for a quarter here and there. I literally watched the last eight minutes the other night … It’s like you almost get jealous. Like, damn, I’m enjoying my experience with Team USA, but I’d rather be one of the teams still playing.”
Lillard has made it no secret that he wants to win an NBA championship. A player of his caliber is going to be ambitious when it comes to success on the court. However, he also chose to stay with the Trail Blazers and remain loyal to them when most would have not. And now, as rumors of his dissatisfaction and potential departure continue to gather momentum, he still refutes those stories.
He wants to win a championship in Portland. But the franchise hasn’t been able to get him the kind of supporting cast that he needs. When will Damian Lillard decide that he needs to prioritize his championship ambitions over his loyalty? Whenever he does, the league will be on high alert to get him.
