Image Source: USA Today Sports
[Saba Sports News] During a recent interaction with the press, Damian Lillard, currently shining for the Bucks, divulged his ambitions for life after basketball. He expressed a keen interest in acquiring a stake in the Portland Trail Blazers, alongside his erstwhile teammate and fellow sharpshooter, CJ McCollum. “Absolutely, absolutely, I’ll definitely be a participant in that,” Lillard affirmed about his aspirations to take an ownership role with the Blazers post-retirement.
Transitioning from player to NBA team owner is rare but not unprecedented. Michael Jordan, who recently divested his interest in the Hornets, is the most famous example, having managed the franchise for several years. Shaquille O’Neal also held a minority stake in the Sacramento Kings before selling it, and LeBron James has been linked with ownership of a potential Las Vegas expansion team. Although Lillard’s focus remains on his playing career, his potential for ownership is clear, given his profound connection with the Blazers.
Damian Lillard, at 33, has spent 11 memorable seasons with the Trail Blazers, becoming a pivotal figure for the team and the city, both on and off the court. Last season, he cemented his status as one of the franchise’s all-time greats by setting the Blazers’ scoring record.
However, dissatisfaction with the team’s direction led him to request a trade, landing him with the Bucks. Lillard’s future, whether it involves returning to Portland in a playing capacity or an official role post-retirement, remains to be seen. Yet, his enduring bond with the Trail Blazers suggests a possible reunion, underscoring his deep-rooted affiliation with the team and the city.