Damian Lillard's Return to Portland: A Warm Welcome but a Loss for the Bucks
Despite the emotional reunion, the Trail Blazers managed to secure a 119-116 victory over Lillard's new team, the Milwaukee Bucks.
- Damian Lillard, who played for the Portland Trail Blazers for 11 seasons, returned to Portland for the first time since his trade to the Milwaukee Bucks.
- Lillard was welcomed back with a carefully choreographed 48-hour celebration, including a minute-long standing ovation during player introductions and two lengthy tribute videos.
- Despite the warm welcome, the Trail Blazers managed to score a 119-116 victory over the Bucks, spoiling Lillard's return.
- Lillard's performance was not at his usual level, with him shooting just 3 for 13 on three-pointers and opting to pass when presented with a well-timed double team on Milwaukee's game-deciding possession.
- Lillard admitted that he is still adjusting to playing with new teammates in a new system, and the Bucks' defense and execution have been problematic.
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