Newsletter
Fadeaway World
  • Fadeaway World
  • NBA News & Analysis
  • NBA Trade Rumors
  • NBA News & Media
  • Exclusive Interviews
  • NBA 2K
Reading: Damian Lillard On Playing Kobe Bryant For The First Time: “He Was Really Like A Real General”
Fadeaway WorldFadeaway World
Search
  • Fadeaway World
  • NBA News & Analysis
  • NBA Trade Rumors
  • NBA News & Media
  • Exclusive Interviews
  • NBA 2K
Follow US
Home > NBA News & Analysis > Damian Lillard On Playing Kobe Bryant For The First Time: “He Was Really Like A Real General”

Damian Lillard On Playing Kobe Bryant For The First Time: “He Was Really Like A Real General”

Damian Lillard shares his vivid memories of his NBA debut against Kobe Bryant, describing Kobe's commanding presence and leadership, even in the heat of competition.

Vishwesha Kumar
Nov 24, 2023
5 Min Read
Share

Credit: Fadeaway World

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.

We sincerely appreciate and respect you as a reader of our site. It would help us a lot if you follow us on Google News because of the latest update.

Thanks for following us. We really appreciate your support.

Follow on Google News

Thank you for being a valued reader of Fadeaway World. If you liked this article, please consider following us on Google News. We appreciate your support.

TAGGED:Damian LillardKobe BryantLos Angeles Lakers Archive
Share This Article
Facebook Email Copy Link Print
ByVishwesha Kumar
Follow:
Vishwesha Kumar is a staff writer for Fadeaway World from Bengaluru, India. Graduating with a Bachelor of Technology from PES University in 2020, Vishwesha leverages his analytical skills to enhance his sports journalism, particularly in basketball. His experience includes writing over 3000 articles across respected publications such as Essentially Sports and Sportskeeda, which have established him as a prolific figure in the sports writing community.Vishwesha’s love for basketball was ignited by watching LeBron James, inspiring him to delve deeply into the nuances of the game. This personal passion translates into his writing, allowing him to connect with readers through relatable narratives and insightful analyses. He holds a unique and controversial opinion that Russell Westbrook is often underrated rather than overrated. Despite Westbrook's flaws, Vishwesha believes that his triple-double achievements and relentless athleticism are often downplayed, making him one of the most unique and electrifying players in NBA history, even if his style of play can sometimes be polarizing. 
Previous Article Serge Ibaka Explains Why NBA Is Easier Than European Basketball: “You Can Rest A Bit In Defense Because One Guy Is Going 1-On-1”
Next Article NBA Fans Debate Who Has The Best Players Between The West And East Coast
Leave a Comment

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Newsletter

Stay up to date with our newsletter on the latest news, trends, ranking lists, and evergreen articles

Newsletter
Facebook X-twitter Instagram

You Might Also Like

Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4) brings the ball up the court against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
NBA News & Analysis

Carmelo Anthony Weighs In On Whether Russell Westbrook Is Being Blackballed From The NBA

October 11, 2025
Victor Oladipo
NBA News & Analysis

Victor Oladipo Says He’s Ready For NBA Comeback: “It’s Where I’m Supposed To Be”

October 11, 2025
Brooklyn, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez speaks at Media Day. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
Brooklyn Nets News & Analysis

Nets Head Coach Jordi Fernandez Highlights Area Of Improvement For Team In Preseason

October 11, 2025
D'Angelo Russell
Dallas Mavericks News & Analysis

D’Angelo Russell Compared To “That Friend Who Overstays His Welcome”

October 10, 2025

NBA - Fadeaway World

  • Atlanta Hawks
  • Boston Celtics
  • Brooklyn Nets
  • Charlotte Hornets
  • Chicago Bulls
  • Cleveland Cavaliers
  • Dallas Mavericks
  • Denver Nuggets
  • Detroit Pistons
  • Golden State Warriors
  • Houston Rockets
  • Indiana Pacers
  • Los Angeles Clippers
  • Los Angeles Lakers
  • Memphis Grizzlies
  • Miami Heat
  • Milwaukee Bucks
  • Minnesota Timberwolves
  • New Orleans Pelicans
  • New York Knicks
  • Oklahoma City Thunder
  • Orlando Magic
  • Philadelphia 76ers
  • Phoenix Suns
  • Portland Trail Blazers
  • Sacramento Kings
  • San Antonio Spurs
  • Toronto Raptors
  • Utah Jazz
  • Washington Wizards

Pages

  • NBA Trade Rumors
  • NBA Media
  • Exclusive NBA Interviews
  • NBA 2K News & Updates

© 2025 Fadeaway World @ All Rights Reserved

  • About Fadeaway World
  • Fadeaway World Authors
  • Editorial Team
  • Ethics Policy
  • Corrections Policy
  • Editorial Guidelines
  • Fact-Checking Policy
  • Contact Us
Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address
Password

Lost your password?