Damian Lillard On Why He Believes The NBA Is Changing For The Worse

We are thrilled to welcome our very first guest on The Old Man and The Three, Portland Trail Blazers guard and lNBA superstar Damian Lillard. The episode drops first thing tomorrow and it goes even deeper than this teaser clip. Speaking of, in this clip Dame talks about the differences between when he first came into the league and now. He also touches on how "rings culture" has made us lose sight of the journey.
Subscribe to The Old Man and The Three podcast w/ JJ Redick (ESPN / First Take) and Tommy Alter KZbin channel today for more NBA analysis, player interviews and highlights.
Also subscribe to Dame's channel here @DamianLillard
#nba #jjredick #damianlillard

[@JJRedick]

This conversation with Dame is one of the best ones we’ve ever had. We go deeper into conversations about life, competition and fulfillment. We also dig deep into scoring and shooting mechanics. Just an awesome interview with an awesome guy. The full thing drops first thing tomorrow morning so subscribe if you haven’t. Thanks for watching.

[@Brandonmv]

Dont forget JJ, we don’t think about you!

[@jasontrimble7500]

One of the best interviewers on sports podcast JJ Redick never disappoints and Dame is a stone cold killer that does things the right way, small franchise. Man I hope this guy gets a ring. Beating a super team. He’s one of those old school mentalities staying true to his city and team. JJ Redick is one of the only reasons I tune into First take. Because he keeps it real without all the nonsense racist talk goes. Cant wait to see full interview

[@fadz0555]

Facts

[@TimChu]

Nobody thinks about you JJ, but we looking forward to the full interview

[@momoseck7094]

You're the goat at this sutff JJ

[@ithinkimanaries2620]

Dame is one of the last of his kind in the NBA. To be as talented as him and never abandon his journey despite what people want from him. Seems like one of the most down to earth athletes I’ve heard. Love this guy man

[@KurinKato1]

Giannis too(get dame to the bucks)

[@eddyededwin]

respect it but it hurt his legacy becuz of stupid american logic that tell us winning a chip is everything

[@tim.noonan]

@@KurinKato1 Dame would never team up w/ Giannis and that’s why he’s great

[@eddyededwin]

@@tim.noonan he teams up with giannis and wins 1 chip hes prolly a first ballot hofer. keep staying where he is theres a chance khris middleton gets in before him

[@ithinkimanaries2620]

@@eddyededwin only hurts his legacy if you believe that bs rhetoric. To me it’s adds to his legacy. Most loyal player in a team game. Dame not winning a ring doesn’t reflect how good he is or isnt. It shows he hasn’t had the team to help get him there. And he’s still never left when he easily could’ve. That’s admirable to me. Like he said rings aren’t everything despite what people want to say. It’s about the journey too. That’s why no one cares about KDs 2 back to back championships

[@jackharrist8180]

Respect to Dame for being brave enough to say this. The NBA has gone from player empowerment to player enablement.

[@marshallbeck9101]

And 60% of nba fans have already known this for 5 years atleast, always takes a min for the norms to catch up

[@dominicbuffa2457]

Said it perfectly

[@tyclavin6356]

So well put! You could say the same for society as a whole.

[@Arturo_Kilgore_Morgan]

I agree. There needs to be a balance between players not letting orgs push them around, and also not letting Mfs like Ben Simmons take advantage of guaranteed contracts

[@bennbutters2578]

Brave?

[@stephengrinkley9889]

My respect level for Dame just went up like 100%. Dude is on point. What he just mentioned is exactly why I have fallen out of love with the NBA since the mid - late 2000's

[@davidhutch307]

Don't let the door hit you on the way out

[@TTD641]

@@davidhutch307 epic win

[@alexlandy7422]

Can’t handle the truth going buck

[@waidass123456789]

damn right

[@MrTwins-pw4vs]

Nba went south after that detroit/Indiana brawl

[@sunrise7937]

Dame is well anchored and has his head over his shoulder. A true role model to emulate, in his own words “I play with my kids, have real friends, visit my mom, and talk to my uncle about life” I admire his authenticity and love for the game not fame or money

[@DH-ru1jb]

Safe to say that Dame is simply just in touch with reality. A superstar that holds himself with the rest of humanity.

[@W_Westbrook]

@The Good Millionaire make a wish foundation

[@squalley]

Translation: #aRealOne 😎🥃

[@officialhobojacoby]

Well put

[@seanmcbrearty1365]

An eye-opener for me was learning players are taking half quart or full court shots to end quarters intentionally after the buzzer. Just because they want to look like they tried but they don’t actually want it to count against their three-point stats. There is a game inside the game that we are not seeing.

[@MrShanester117]

He’s so in touch with reality that he is off by ten years how old the guys he mentioned are. 😂

[@PhantomSailor513]

Love the realness of this dude. “I have a real life” hits so hard, hes not focused on all the media bs about Portland never winning a ring, hes focused on being the best version of himself, as not only an NBA player but a husband, son, grandson, nephew, etc

[@xofmetleh6618]

Its not that his realness what he is saying is the truth. Maybe players getting stronger, faster, talented but the personality is becoming weak for this new generations.

[@Playerz714]

It doesn't change the fact tho that he can't get it done

[@jaredweber8296]

^^ you’re part of the problem he’s talking about

[@lav7161]

​@Playerz714 Since he got in the league, the Heat, Spurs and Warriors hogged all the championships lol. What do you want the man to do with what he has 🤣 some fans are crazy I swear

[@SMJay357]

@@jaredweber8296 most definitely part of the problem lol from the main comment to that one just shows the disconnect and how much the media really controls things these days

[@ctower23]

This man feels more at peace than most people than win a championship. He's already won life in my opinion

[@ranauldogreer2711]

I honestly think the Blazers fans would try to crucify him for leaving at least that’s what I hope

[@weebtrash3376]

@@ranauldogreer2711Blazers fans don’t care if he wants to be traded. They’re pissed off since he only wants to be traded to 1 team and no other contender

[@sebastianstark8517]

Not a Blazers fan, but really respect Lillard. The way he plays, his outlook on life, and his perspectives for the game and his life. He has a great grasp of context and is well-grounded. Wish you success, Damian, and based on this interview, I think you've already achieved the most important success in your life due to your own self-awareness.

[@ocben2184]

Loved his answer “I have a life” because not just in the nba but society as a whole we have placed more value on social media life than ACTUAL real life. That’s insanity

[@strawberrysherbet9679]

Yeah he’s prob comfortable with his family in portland. That’s where he wanna be ppl just don’t understand outside of basketball everyone has their own lives and the live the way they wanna regardless of what social media says.

[@TheJwalk1234]

Facts

[@Kiennguyen22360]

This is opposite of kd, Mr burner accnt watching the news about him 24/7

[@allaboutthemurzic]

@@strawberrysherbet9679 Exactly

[@jwill9237]

​@@Kiennguyen22360 or ja morant posting himself holding guns

[@TRJ2241987]

As an NBA fan since the early 90s......thank God someone like Damian Lillard still exists......most of the basketball world has gone insane and integrity is out the door

[@toogoat9293]

Most NBA fans now are teens and early 20s. That's why the integrity has gone out the door, they don't know any better

[@ARod-br2ui]

No comparison, the NBA of today vs the NBA of the mid-80’s to the 90’s. I can’t even stomach watching a modern NBA game. Haven’t watched in I don’t know how many years.

[@BookerT69]

I can’t watch the NBA is pure garbage you can’t learn nothing about it but what agenda the ESPNs what you to know. They don’t talk about 🏀 when JJ exposed Perk the other day that’s all the NBA is. It doesn’t get half the views March madness does

[@Sahadi420]

You mean, giving $20 million to a 20 year old might go wrong??? He hit on so much...and to me it seemed that he was directly talking to Lebron. LOL The whole "decision" with him was laughable....as he went to WADE'S TEAM to win his first championship. And now you have Lebron "building the Lakers"....to be under .500. Lebron is a gifted athlete, no doubt, but had he gone to college for 3 years, he'd be a helluva lot better, and probably be better at his team building. I think both college, and pro ball is suffering, simply due to the quickness for the tens of millions. Remember when Jordan wanted to play with Magic, and Bird???? LOL They hated each other's guts on the floor. That basketball is gone....

[@karvinedavis9836]

​@Sahadi420 funny cuz I was thinking about KD

[@athenamendenhall2651]

Whether Portland wins a ring or not, they will be acknowledged for many years to come for drafting a gem like Dame. Like some of the greatest to ever compete at the professional level who remained loyal to one franchise, the franchise that drafted them, Karl Malone, Reggie Miller, and Patrick Ewing to name a few didn’t win rings but turned struggling franchises into top competitors. The groundbreaking salary given to Dame is to say thank you, thank you for your commitment, your loyalty, and not switching teams taking those exceptional skills elsewhere.

[@gullscomic]

Dame has said time and time again about the journey and the love for the game. I hope more basketball fans can understand there's more to this game than just the ring culture. Great interview.

[@timc1277]

Damian Lillard is what every NBA player should aspire to be. What a guy.

[@shezadm6300]

Yes he is an NBA legend for sure! By the way, the videos on the playlist on my channel might interest some people!

[@Cmelo7100]

No the hell hes not 😂 he’s an elite player with nothing to show for it but all star games and a 3pt comp win and some all nba teams.

[@Jbcomedystl]

@@Cmelo7100 bru you new fans are weird. Great players are great players ..it’s people in the top 75 players ever who don’t have rings and are still great. We can’t allow people like you..to change what always mattered. Playing great

[@thetruth65756]

lol, thats a bit too far

[@SiopaoClub]

Dame is missing the point...The NBA is an opportunity to be rich, famous, and build a brand. NOT for "fun" or "passion". We live in a hustle culture where individualism and success should be the priority. People may not like Ben Simmons, but people like him and Lamelo emulate what future NBA players should be. Work SMART not HARD.

[@jamesgutierrez7079]

How could you not be a fan of Damian Lillard...what a real humble human being and a real class act ...

[@whogonestop0]

He’s amazing just doesn’t want to win a championship

[@johnfury316]

@@whogonestop0 I agree

[@basicLife7721]

OR You can be Giannis. Be with the franchise that drafted you, stay loyal to them, take them to another level and bring a ring

[@Rogue_Centurion]

@@basicLife7721 he’s tried to do that but most of the time he had to go through the warriors

[@NediaLetta]

@@basicLife7721 you forget that Giannis's front office is competent enough to build him a team.

[@onthetwoturntables]

Dame is a real one. Talented, humble and seems like a real down to earth dude. Love his attitude to the game and life

[@mark11967AD]

We sure could use a lot more people like Damian Lillard with his perspective, attitude, and values not just in basketball but in ALL walks of life. Great human being.

[@johnoszust3041]

JJ is terrific at just allowing guys to talk. Gives them time to flesh out ideas, go off track and come back, and most importantly gives the space for vulnerability in their answers to exist before interjecting or redirecting

[@JonCarlo_]

JJ knows how to pick out the BIG points and get into what people are really saying. Like in this clip when he broke down the 2 big ideas of what Dame said. Quality 👌

[@DAILYWALKIN]

bro he's probably one of the few hosts of all podcasts that exists to actually let the guest talk and think

[@SFO14]

JJ’s ok, but he sure pissed off Jerry West

[@michaelo6161]

Ring or no ring dame time will always be one of my favorite players ever and nothing but respect to him. Stayed loyal, got his bag, legit carries Portland as much he can, hasn’t done one thing to make Portland look bad. He’s a great in my books

[@rakimhinds6388]

Dame is just a good man, a great dude period. Hopefully there are some young NBA players taking notes.

[@dillonshaw9471]

Terrible excuse bro dame should have a ring he has a career that’s once in a lifetime

[@van2.060]

There is no loyalty in sports man…I hate hearing people say that shyt…if Dame sucked they would trade him tomorrow or if they could get what they viewed as a better player he’s gone…stop with the loyal mess

[@markees97]

@@van2.060 I agree man. People want to talk about loyalty just because you stayed with a team and resigned a new contract. Like once your contract is up, you are not obligated to stay with that team. Period! It’s one thing if you asked/demanded a trade while your contract was active, it’s another thing to go somewhere else once it is up! And it’s not like these rookies had a choice to go when they get drafted, it just so happens they were sent somewhere that they might not like. And another thing is that I feel like Dame is only saying that cuz he has a max contract. would he stay if they didn’t give him a max but other teams would?

[@shezadm6300]

Yes he is an NBA legend for sure! By the way, the videos on the playlist on my channel might interest some people!

[@odjhoops]

This is why Damian Lillard is the NBA player I respect the most. Stays true to himself and doesn't get caught up in the noise. Who cares if lame dudes on twitter or whatever who have never played in the league want to criticize him for not winning a Championship? Dude has been a total star and has made his team better. He's an unbelievable player. Not every great player can or will win a ring! And it's not the only thing that matters in terms of success in NBA or LIFE! Shoutout Dame for being a total bucket but also for being humble.

[@Seryma86]

Completely agree, he’s different. And just a menace on the court

[@psifiusc]

Dame is straight up one of the most solid people the league has seen in a long time.

[@bigdogstatus83]

This reminds me why Derrick Rose was so special when he came. That’s why he’s been so beloved, even now. He was the most humble superstar. He recognized he had to earn it even though he was a beast.

[@Lee-ic8ln]

If you guys didn't realize, Dame was talking about Zion Williams.

[@ShaneJoshua1980]

It breaks my heart what injuries did to him

[@SMoore-vj7bt]

No. He was simply a beast, that's all.

[@TheSpiritOfTheWest]

Derrick rose will always be a legend

[@Avmuhammad64]

🎯🎯

[@CharleyCarey]

Stuff like this is why Dame and Giannis are BY FAR my 2 favorite players in the NBA.

[@NardoBlaq]

Same I just appreciate loyalty and against the grain players

[@TruthSpeaker4]

Imagine Dame on the Bucks

[@thuggwaffle8825]

For real they’re both dudes that are just happy with their lives playing basketball.. Unfazed by what anyone has to say.. While haters in the basement are trying to type with their greasy Cheeto fingers

[@sportsgamer2342]

@@TruthSpeaker4 but that ain’t gonna happen. Because it’s not all about rings

[@van2.060]

@@NardoBlaq man I’m so damn tired of people using loyalty in sports…there is no loyalty in sports!!! It’s a damn business teams would trade him tomorrow if he could no longer perform…he’s getting paid huge dollars and hates the superteam or teaming up thing just to say you got a ring…it has nothing to do with damn loyalty…it doesn’t exist in sports

[@dolamitic]

I loved the point Dame makes about people ignoring the journey. I’m not sure how or who started it but it feels like players, fans, organisations and analysts (talking heads) just gave up on the journey of the regular season. It’s just so disappointing.

[@og1105]

just listening to Dame from this makes me believe in him even more. Such a great Human being on and off the court. May God bless your heart 🙏🏽

[@bobbydeason6581]

So much respect for Dame for telling it like it is..."I have a life." Family matters more than anything and he embodies that. Love it!

[@JordanRA]

I think people tend to forget that these guys are human too. Sometimes we put them on different planes of existence but I think Dame really does show what is actually important and what matters. I love and respect this guy so much

[@pabl0sauced0]

Fr, dude found a peaceful place where his family loves to live and is probably rooted in the community by now. Mfs on the internet think it's easy to pull your kids out of school and make everything change just to go satisfy a bunch of insecure strangers on the internet.

[@taexviii5383]

I love dame but I’m finna do it.. if kyrie said this everybody would say the opposite

[@taexviii5383]

Actually, when I think ab it, that’s literally what kyrie is saying 90% of the time

[@fenzelian]

Part of it is Dame isn’t saying it all the time, only when it’s relevant to the matter at hand. Kyrie doesn’t have that restraint.

[@Trailrunner1978]

Man this is the most down to earth thoughtful and real NBA superstar. I have much more respect for superstars staying with a team, than shopping round for superteams just for winning a championship. He is a humble grown up man with integrity. Respect.

[@barbaranewman5759]

Damn they still have regular down to earth people like this in the NBA. Mama and Grandma must be on their knees daily praying for him. Hope he stays like this and don’t let those demons change him

[@brandonmiller7122]

This interview with Dame is one of a kind. That right there shows the kind of man he is. Portland is super lucky to have him, ring or no ring.

[@lebronjamesharden3958]

no ring?!?!?!

[@justthefacts620]

No ring.

[@charlesmazola4648]

More like super bless....

[@Adventure-of-your-Life]

My respect for this man has literally gone through the roof after seeing this. I completely agree. It's not just in the NBA either. I see this constantly in my everyday life. People look at others as just stepping stones.. There's no hierarchy or comradery. It's narcissism .. At it's core.

[@SiopaoClub]

Dame is missing the point...The NBA is an opportunity to be rich, famous, and build a brand. NOT for "fun" or "passion". We live in a hustle culture where individualism and success should be the priority. People may not like Ben Simmons, but people like him and Lamelo emulate what future NBA players should be. Work SMART not HARD. Nothing wrong being narcissistic if later in life you can pay forward. There is more to life than just basketball.

[@Dnero518]

​@Siopao Knows Basketball What??? You must be joking badly. Have fun enjoying your life just constantly looking to be more successful than others instead of finding what your really passionate about and thriving at that.

[@JamesMiller69]

@@SiopaoClub tf are you talking about man? More to life than just basketball... So go out and be a self-entitled douchebag? I think you meant to leave this comment on an Andrew Tate video or something. Dame JUST described how he and his family have a great life. Not to mention, all this is your opinion, and fair enough, but don't come out here talking about "this is how society is and this is how you HAVE to function in it" tf do you know? Certainly not more than Dame or JJ, especially on this topic. Sit down my g.

[@ImBarryScottCSS]

​@@SiopaoClub No. You are missing the point that Dame understands perfectly. None of those things make people happy.

[@stevegutierrez7891]

Like literally? You had actual roof damage?

[@michaelcheng4985]

One of the most authentic and honest conversations I’ve seen on the NBA and Sports in general 💯

[@brianfollendorf168]

JJ has been on fire this past month! Keep up the great work!

[@cruzkoward5093]

What us Blazer fans appreciate most about Dame is how he said he has a life outside basketball. We see that he moved his whole life meaning all his ppl out here to Portland. We see them he created a environment for them to succeed in their endeavors. They’ve become members of the community out here and successful ones at that too. He’s not leaving Portland this truly is his home not only him but his whole circle now. He’s a real dude.

[@Kennyisdarkvanilla]

@@DieselDog1982 he moved his entire family from Oakland to Portland.

[@insertlastname]

Portland is a shithole

[@flylitpilot4202]

Every athlete has a life outside of sports . Everybody has a life outside of work. He needs to quit bitching and deal wit it. He’s on a weak franchise that can’t win bottom line. Had a chance to leave and didn’t. Then he makes it about the state of the sport or his life outside of bball. Play ball! He gets paid millions to play a sport and he complains lmao 🤡

[@nicholasheindel3490]

@@flylitpilot4202 u made a truly sad comment man. Stop acting like u actually care about him getting a ring. Stop acting like u care about his contract. Stop acting like u know what he wants to do with his career. All these players are just good at a game that is fun to watch. Ur a sad and hateful individual

[@flylitpilot4202]

@@nicholasheindel3490 what’s the goal of every sport? To win a championship right. Portland never gave him pieces to win everybody knows that even Dame. So Why be loyal to a franchise that can’t win? Oh because they gave him a max contract so he stayed. Now he’s complaining about the state of the sport and this “you need rings” culture. Duh Mf 🤣🤣 this ain’t no everybody gets a medal for participation sport you big dummy (talkin bout Dame not you personally)

[@joeknapp9162]

We need more people like Dame in the world. He’s a ferocious competitor, one of the best in the world at what he does and he’s still able to keep everything in perspective despite the fame and fortune. Just a real, humble guy that loves his family and does what he needs to do to care for them and accomplish his own goals too. Dude’s an inspiration; a role model on and off the court. Love this man 👏🏻

[@TheMarslMcFly]

@@ramseytomo123 Watch the Fans set their Offices ablaze

[@MarcusTheJR]

Humility isn't worth it. When your allowing someone to take your best years for you. The BLAZERS will trade him. Stop telling young people to be loyal and competitive for lazy managers

[@GoliathGTX]

Blazers trading him won't change his mindset though, that's the beauty of it. Dude just wants to do things his way, whether others (like his team) wants the same or not is not his concern. But I am sure you all don't understand that since ya'all have the "Better to stab someone before they stab you" mentality. He is this way not because he is naive and dumb enough to think that his team will be loyal to him. He is this way because he sticks to it despite knowing full well that his team can choose to dump him to the side when he has no value. It's a choice.

[@joeknapp9162]

@@MarcusTheJR he’s not just doing it for the club. You weren’t listening. Dame’s choices are for Dame and Dame alone. He got his money, he’s comfortable with his living situation and he’s determined to win on his own terms. He’s not running from the grind, he’s not ducking any challenges and he’s certainly not at the mercy of management. He’s doing him and will continue to find success because he’s doing it his way for himself and his family, nobody else.

[@joeknapp9162]

@@GoliathGTX you a real one 👏🏻✊🏻💯

[@edfrey0]

Great questions. I love how honest Damian was when asked about differences now.

[@harrycorrigan6453]

Favorite player in the League. As a knicks fan if there was one player I wish would come to NY its dame but I respect his loyalty. Wish more players had this mindset.

[@ForMindlessConsumption]

You can feel Dame's emotion shift when he said he didn't know if he could play that long in this league. He's a very honorable human being, and a phenomenal basketball player. I imagine those two forces must rip him apart on a daily basis.

[@MarcusTheJR]

There is no glory in losing. Going down with the ship, ISN'T WORTH IT.

[@rikudouray]

This generation was still blessed to have a player like Dame... I hope the old tradition comeback slowly.

[@callidawkins85]

marcus smart keeping it alive imo..

[@dustinwillis3261]

It won’t . The Culture has changed for the worst outcome

[@matthewc3488]

Dame is a great player, who is overrated, overpaid, that will never win.

[@callidawkins85]

@@matthewc3488 overrated ? youre lost in space with this take ..give me some of what youre smoking

[@matthewc3488]

@@callidawkins85 I got you chief. I get my stuff from the Top 75 voters who placed Dame ahead of Carter, T-Mac, Klay, Ginobili, Bernard King, English, and Kyrie. Get at me.

[@ULTRA-BOOST]

Dame Lilliard has been my favorite player to watch over the last 10 years. You could always tell how he carried himself different than a lot of other players in the league. I believe he is top 3 point gaurd to ever play the game, and that's saying a lot. He will hit Logo 3's all game and not act like a show-off everytime they go in. Also drop 50 on any given day. Much RESPECT!

[@MeanMikeOG]

Played ball my whole life, I'm 41 now and can't watch a min of nba without having to change the channel. It reminds me of open gym days. Chucking 3s, i think more 3s chucked up then open gym lol, no D played, bad refs, lots and lots of whining and stars making an absurd amount of money and sitting games especially when not injured.... Its unreal that I can't stand it when I loved the game for so long.

[@cdsersd2d]

Damian is an intelligent deep thinker. He understands that his life is much more than an NBA player. You can tell that he enjoys the game and is very good at it, but it's only one facet of his life. Best wishes my friend Damian. See you in the hall of fame.

[@kappakuppa7255]

I would love to see dame in the hall of fame but does he really make it

[@kappakuppa7255]

@Surfy I aint even know Yao ming made it. Yeah if he made it dame should

[@mikehall1995]

Yeah he’s thinking that way because he’s realizing that he can’t win a ring & be mentioned w magic Johnson or Steph curry

[@vegantronfit]

I love Dame and the way he thinks. He’s not just going to join a team because he wants a championship and he’s not worried about it if he doesn’t win a championship.

[@wills.9422]

No.. i think he realizes no matter what he will most likely never win one lol..if he asks for a trade blazers will ask for all the assets to get him 😂.. and he didn’t want to do the LBJ route and leaving after his contract is over.

[@vegantronfit]

@@wills.9422 I hear ya but I actually think he just has the old school mentality. The youngsters now a days don’t like to earn things they want them to be given to them. Not Dame! So yeah I love it.

[@HowardCabalfin]

First time watching your channel JJ. Im impressed with the thoughtfulness of Dame and your interview skills. Subscribing!

[@adams.gestwicki5292]

Dame has become one of my favorite people in the NBA. He's got a non-toxic perspective about what it means to win. He just appreciates the value of his life on and off the court, and who it allows him to be. Seriously love that JJ just talks with players the as candidly as he does, and makes sure he's not putting his voice in their words.

[@sixate]

Dame seems really down to Earth, grounded, humble, smart. How can anyone not like him. Great player, seems like an even greater person.

[@liekabauz]

Dame one of the few active players to be able to say what he’s saying. He came into this league fighting for his spot, taking what he deserves. The multiple all star snubs, playing behind Aldridge, etc. nothing was given to dame. He earned his spot.

[@cheekynative]

The most balanced take I've heard on player's attitude towards the game today. Chips will always be a dominant metric, and rightfully so, but at the end of the day these guys are just doing what they're being paid to do. It's a vanishingly small percentage of NBA players who will ever get a single ring, never mind four or five; for the vast majority of the guys who lace them up every night, being a consistent, reliable professional is all they can reasonably be expected to aspire to. Ball is not, in fact, life.

[@darionmds2422]

My respect for Dame Lillard just skyrocketed. The part where he talks about his best friend is sth else. In a world of clicks, likes, and tweets this guy talks about real friendship. I tip my imaginary hat to you. This guy should be regarded as a role model, not the Ja Morants of the world.

[@hazdude222]

I thought of Ja right when he said that....

[@jimmyrobinson5699]

fax Ja's probably the worst role model in basketball any kid could have

[@dvon919NC]

Bigg Factz. Big Respect Now

[@partofeverything2147]

Jah Morant didn't break any laws. Honestly I feel like the whole Jah Morant thing is racist. A black guy with a gun is a thug. If you see some video of a honky with a gun then you'll say it's normal. Edit: Do we want kids to drink alcohol? No. But if you see an NBA player drinking alcohol is that ok? Yes, of course because it's legal

[@feelcollins4358]

@@partofeverything2147 These people are role models, millions of kids watch and admire them, and they want to be like them. Sure they're also human and have flaws, but being proud of them and broadcasting their bad influence for the whole world to see is just plain dumb

[@djaramillo09]

Dirk, Kobe, Dame, Duncan and other extremely loyal players are very appreciated. Many fans will always respect the hell out of loyalty

[@Riqq44]

What’s the difference between them and dame? 😂

[@AP-ig5pi]

@@Riqq44 exactly, all these people keep giving him props for being loyal, but he can't elevate his team like those other guys who literally have multiple rings lmao.

[@JCedition1]

@@AP-ig5pi Youre a moron. Name 3 players dame spent more than 2 years with. Now do that for dirk, kobe and duncan. You guys swear like context doesnt matter and basketball isnt a team sport.

[@yaomang08]

Kobe was close to leaving at one point lol 😂

[@alexavila7152]

​@@yaomang08 more than one point.

[@derekanderson6222]

Great interview great basketball minds and super interesting real points. Thanks guys

[@reisslindhardt9441]

Wow this makes me love Damian even more. Very well said, and Dame, there are a ton of fans who are seeing the same thing. It’s sad. Also, Damian 100% earned his own respect 🫡

[@MFKaradayiEnglish]

That's exactly what D.Rose is doing at the Knicks. He been guiding all these young dudes for the better ❤

[@teamgreats4084]

As a Life Long Knicks fan, nothing means more to me than D Rose CHOSING TO STAY WITH THE KNICKS.... He didn't ask or WANTED a buy out!!!! MUCH RESPECT TO D ROSE for being the Vet RJ,IQ,QG,and everybody else on the team

[@dannynhl9441]

@@teamgreats4084 D Rose as a Knicks fan is the John Starks of this era. All heart All NYC. He takes me back to early 90's Knicks.

[@cotococo2970]

im just happy rose still in the nba

[@getmoney3806]

And Udonis Haslem. Bro hardly plays but helps set the culture in Miami.

[@SamUHells]

@@getmoney3806 nah haslem was good for that a few years ago he shoulda been out the league at least 2 years ago. Not like he’s affecting their record at all they’re mid.

[@Washanuga]

Sounds like he has genuine family and friends in his life who have no nefarious agendas which is such a blessing for someone in his position, and something that seems rare for a lot of the younger stars coming into the league. I love that he can kick it with his cousins and talk about normal non-NBA friendship stuff. Must be a big reason he's so grounded and at peace with his life.

[@tpsam]

Dame had much more ghetto problems than ja growing up But as adults in the league it's the reverse

[@agentsmidt3209]

@@tpsam It took me a minute to grow up (in my 30s and unfucking my life). Some people mature a lot quicker than others.

[@rockysalvatore435]

@@agentsmidt3209 ja should be in jail no excuses

[@joshyoung090]

Idk I just don’t like seeing dame be okay with playing for a team that just wants to sell tickets.

[@solezuroleman8892]

Great conversation. Lillard's comments on the current NBA are right on point AND right on time. The game today is what it is but it certainly isn't the best version of the game.

[@alasakisa]

Love this dude, talk about being down to earth and humble. And he's speaking facts here

[@Hitman_1992]

Dame is speaking facts! He is in that category about earning and working for your goals.

[@mobetta2092]

Vets in every era have always said this about every group of young players.

[@TheLivewire18]

The most damaging thing that’s ever happened to basketball culture, is how we have started to talk about the game like it’s a singles sport, as compared to a team sport. It’s all about your rings, your stats. As dame says, young guys with talent come in, the keys are handed off before they’ve even earned it. I feel like most of these issues wouldn’t be there if fans and media didn’t focus so much on the individuals and their “all time ranking” and stuff like that as much.

[@therokku7393]

In soccer this happened like 15 years ago, even though its less notorious bcs you have like 11 players per team, but there is that obsession with balon d'ors, Champions League, World Cups, when you have to take back that a player is really good bcs he hasnt won a major cup, but still there is people like Luka Modric that remembers people that good players can be more than the superstar, he isnt the top scorer, he is the top assister

[@AlexBrown-xp7mt]

It’s fine to measure a player’s greatness, the issue lies in the culture around trying to put down and degrade everyone and everything where possible to prop up others. Example, people put down LeBron for not having Jordan’s rings, or Chris Paul for not winning a ring. Appreciate greatness and the things they have done. That’s the issue for me.

[@tylermuir9170]

Yup at the core of the problem is the media and how people outside the nba view it for something it truly isnt

[@Nipiniponipi]

​@@therokku7393 it's different.. for football it was a debate on who's the greatest ever while playing against each other on different championships (Ronaldo and Messi)... in NBA.. EVERYONE is measured based on rings... It happens in football as well but not with all this focus

[@therokku7393]

@@Nipiniponipi yeah, smaller teams and when the clock is ticking you have to be more mobile while in football you can stall the game for minutes if you have the upper hand, in the nba the rules are less forgiving especially at elite level, when one single bucket decides the result of the whole game

[@HM55-77]

Wow...........wow................................Great interview !!! Gives me a whole different perspective on Dame

[@gillouis3437]

Absolutely love this show. Just love honesty

[@benshannon98]

I’m a lifelong Blazers fan, born and raised 20 minutes from Portland. Damian Lillard has been such a remarkable role model for thousands and thousands of young men, and the same can’t be said for many of the other greatest NBA players of all time. The people outside of Portland just don’t get it the way real Portland fans do. Dame is just on another wavelength. Can’t wait for the rest of this episode!

[@minfamous5841]

Man I never cared about the trailblazers at all. I hope dame wins one before it’s over

[@TheGreatMan1999]

Seattle is better

[@kylebushnell2601]

I’ve been a lifelong Dame fan. Great squad to help foster his abilities and character

[@sleeks9939]

@@TheGreatMan1999 not gonna lie. I went to Seattle last month. Being from the LA area. While wearing my Lakers hat and backpack there and from what I’ve experienced there, Seattle doesn’t deserve a NBA team! Lol

[@TheGreatMan1999]

@@sleeks9939 yeah we do , we have the best hoopers in this country , most nba players are from Washington. your not in tune obviously. An yes we’re rich so don’t be jealous

[@akashreddy2928]

6:17 I laughed so hard when he said that. Its such a simple thing but when your intoxicated with fame, girls and money, simple things in life disappear. Dame is truly a gem. In Manchester United, we had a legend called Scholes. He just used to play the game and go home to his kids. No media interview and no partying.

[@mrudhul696]

Facts man.. 🤣🤣 it was the "REAL" which got me.. 🤣🤣🤣

[@DC-YTC]

Scholes always had a team around him good enough to win the title every season he was there

[@raymondjohnregalado3361]

7-0

[@jeffhardy6333]

Scholes was partying mate, idk where you got that from🤣

[@tyronebiggums5547]

Scholesy was a G

[@Toretto16]

And Lillard is such a nice, humble, normal guy beside beeing a real superstar. Respect bro!

[@thenotorious9032]

Dame has always been one of my favorites. I think just this solidifies this. Just a real person.

[@surenick3460]

The first part about vets and the second part about having a real life go hand in hand nicely. Those vets also were more likely to have families, have stable social circles, and could teach young players both directly and by example about having an NBA work-life balance. That's a healthy league wide culture.

[@faraazr.1001]

Honestly bro, this dude is just so down to earth. Prob the realest sportsmen I've ever seen. Humble, honest and relatable. I wish him nothing but all the best in his career and life.

[@josephziegler16]

I've always admired Dame's game. Listening to his perspective on the game increases my respect for him. I appreciate him sticking with Portland, trying to build a winning franchise in a smaller market.

[@gettinmine6604]

Great interview. I said it before and I'll say it again, JJ, you are the alternative we need. Love seeing you on First Take.

[@dontforgetme8201]

We got to appreciate Damian Lillard while he's still in the league man ! True dedication to the sport, true leadership off the court, half a billion dollars in earnings and still humble. Got to love Damian Lillard 💪🏾💪🏾🤙🏾

[@dominiquejones3805]

4real there is a slim amount of players left that respect the game & fans

[@thelearner55]

At 1st when DAME signed the extension I thought he was crazy bc his chance to win is slim to none. After hearing him talk & explain I respect his decision that much more. He's 1 of a kind.

[@iamdezsi]

Bro I'd take 200million over a ring any day

[@stdev.]

I have never listened to Dame talk at length like this. Brother is calm, considered, thoughtful.

[@Demrks]

Great interview

[@dflowhoops]

Humble personalities like Dame are why people watch the NBA

[@Mitra131]

Not really. Maybe for you, me and people us, but Kobe's Shaq's, Iverson's etc are the popular ones. Everyone of them was least successful and more popular (watched) than Duncan

[@Arihiroki_LG]

@@Mitra131 lies Spurs,Suns,Lakers were a must watch, they played every sunday on ABC along with the lakers

[@lllllllllllllllllllllllllll0]

Dame is not humble. Its a front lol

[@darnit5]

@@lllllllllllllllllllllllllll0 as if you knew him as a person, shut up.

[@lllllllllllllllllllllllllll0]

@@darnit5 As if you know him lol. Fanboy

[@pierre130]

Happy to hear someone in the league say this. Been saying this for years and as much as I love the game and never thought I wouldn’t watch it, I had to stop watching the NBA three years ago. Got tired of watching it and being upset for various reasons for 48 minutes. I feel like I made the best decision for my sanity but do miss guys like Dame who you can tell love the game.

[@marlonmbcr]

The part about his uncle calling him to talk about regular stuff has a very deep meaning. I think what he is trying to say is that his family cares about him by heart there is no money or fame interest. A family that loves you unconditionally is one of the few things you cant buy with money.

[@davidhammerstein3182]

I starting getting into the NBA in the early 2000's, I'm no longer a fan now, but hearing Dame talk about ring culture resonates with me. When I think back to my fondest memories of watching the NBA, who won a ring doesn't stand out to me. I remember T-Mac scoring 13 in 33 seconds, not believing what I was seeing. Kobe dropping 81 points. The awesome rivalry games between the Kings and the Lakers. How fun it was watching Richard Jefferson, Kerry Kittles and Jason Kidd play together; Steve Nash, Nowitzki and Michael Finley on the mavericks; Allen Iverson mentoring a young Kyle Korver on the Sixers. Watching Yao Ming and Shaq go head to head. Charles Barkley yelling "GINOBLI!!!" as a commentator. The Malice at the Palace, although that's not really the happiest of situations, but still was crazy memory seeing that unfold live. So in the end, the destination of winning a ring doesn't leave as lasting an impression as the experiences you have along the way as a team. At least to me. Obviously the goal is to win a ring, but making the entire game revolve around only that mattering is a mistake. The journey matters more than the destination. I never was a Trailblazers fan, but much respect to Dame for sticking with his team. I'm sure that means more to his fans than any amount of rings he will win or could've won.

[@taiwowilliams1418]

This was a great read.

[@mikegoesnike]

thank you good sir for this comment

[@benjamin-qn7nf]

@@taiwowilliams1418 i love how you said it was a great read lol. Cause at the end of the day, the NBA is about being the best and that means winning rings 😭🔥

[@GoliathGTX]

@@benjamin-qn7nf Oh yeah, sure. KD looked very happy and people thought he's the best after winning rings in GSW. 😭🔥

[@jasonhughes1463]

And why do you not like the Blazers.....I mean, Dame is having his best year of his career.

[@bryan_turner]

I can't wait for the full episode to drop. Being a Portland native, obviously I love Dame, but even if he weren't he's the type of dude you can't help but to root for and to love. I think I can speak for all Portland fans when I say we are so fortunate to have a player like Dame on our team.

[@lilwauc]

is living in portland fun?

[@goblinbastard]

@@lilwauc it's like any other place. It has its good and bad. Source: Also a native, grew up in the area.

[@ImBarryScottCSS]

Being an Englishman and Laker fanboy, obviously I love Dame. Basically if you don't love Dame something is wrong with you.

[@EzTechJoe]

Dame is the OG at this point. Respect

[@nitchow]

Very articulate young man! I was addicted to NBA when I travelled to USA in 1991 and the finals were going on. I can barely look at the live coverage now. No heart!

[@user-mq5lc1cl1x]

Showing respect to the OGs by telling some stories when he was a rookie, and telling us how he can manage his inner peace, this 9-minute video is worth it. Whether he gets a ring or not, it'll be sure that he's gonna be one of the most beloved players not only in Portland but also in the world

[@danialqureshi]

Man I wish this video was longer. Such a deep and authentic discussion. Such a breath of fresh air to hear such a discussion

[@alerog745]

Full podcast is out tomorrow

[@jand1144]

I was in 9th grade when dame got drafted ive been in awe and A fan of( him) since his rookie year 💯we Will be talking about Dame Cause he A real One 💎 in rough 🏀

[@wendygordon6358]

Damien Lillard is so right. I really appreciate his game and his commitment to it. More importantly, his honesty and character on and off the court. Mr. Lillard you are one of my favorite players, you can definitely play my brother. May God continue to Bless You and Your Family! 😊😊

[@anubishun3299]

I always liked Dame, and now with him explaining how he has a regular everyday life outside the NBA.... this dude knows how to bring balance into his life.

[@partyboy3059]

Hard thing to do, NBA or not

[@christianvilla11]

Damn I could listen to him all day. Dame is built different and you can tell he's a very humble person. He is definitely one of the players out there that deserves a ring.

[@becomingthenext6904]

Humble but confident in himself

[@Broseftoast]

Always loved Lilliard, but he’s quickly become one of my favorite players after learning more about the actual person he is. This man’s integrity, maturity, earnestness… man so few left of these in the nba and honestly the world lol

[@casualobserver4773]

Always loved Dame. Down to earth guy. In touch with reality

[@devinjoseph4804]

You can tell Damian loves life and lives life one day at a time. His perspective is so humble but honest. Respect !

[@ScOutCast_MediaHub]

Damian Lillard is one of the most real and grounded players of ever seen. I’ve always loved him for his play but hearing how thoughtful and eloquent he is, makes me respect him even more. Thank you JJ for the interview! And that’s coming from a UNC fan.

[@lovingmenow5633]

Damian, I understood perfectly what you were trying to convey!✌🏽

[@23srod]

Dame so real. Hit the nail on the head.

[@alexkorabov101]

Dame is a legend man. Few of his breed remain in the NBA. Dude inspires you in ways that's way bigger than basketball. Salute and respect.

[@kidmelo1994]

Dame has always been my favorite PG since he got drafted. I'm so glad his attitude never really changed.

[@carlosellis3407]

Very humble and down to earth ❤👏🏾👍🏾💯

[@mikem.5003]

New favorite player. Love the journey, love life, love yourself. Do you Dame.

[@kensheebattousai]

His take on the importance of veterans in the Nba life was beautiful. Not something you hear often but a great take nonetheless

[@empireoflightz]

It's honestly insane this guy gets criticised for not wanting enough to win a ring that he'd ask to be traded. He's exactly everything we constantly say we want from NBA stars - loyalty, leadership, class, and real love for the city and the franchise. But when we get it instead of appreciating it we act like hypocrits and criticse that too... props to you Dame for keeping it real, tuning out the noise and being true to yourself 💜🙌

[@2moke2creen]

Only cowardly players run away from franchises who are loyal to them. Real pros like* Giannis carried their city to chips. Milwaukee stayed* true to the mission and gave Giannis the team he deserved. I hope Portland gets Dame the help he needs, he DESERVES a ring.

[@MarcusTheJR]

​@@2moke2creen how are you a coward. For doing what is best for you. WTF are you talking about. Where was loyalty when Boston traded Isaiah Thomas, after his sister passed. LOYALTY IS ONLY FOR YOU, YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR FRIENDS.

[@tylerriley5976]

@@2moke2creen No one deserves anything.

[@bizort]

Doing what he does is harder than anything most any player does. That's what gets lost in the discourse

[@beedebawng2556]

Who criticises him for "not wanting a ring"??

[@nickyd5341]

Dame hit it on the money!! Respect and entitlement. It's all well and good that these new cats come in with all this talent but vets are needed to guide them in how to conduct themselves as professionals and have long careers and humble themselves The NBA is a mirror and microcosm of life. I see this every day on my job on a different plane than professional sports but still. The work ethic is missing and people want to shoot straight to the goal and certain positions without grinding for it and displaying grit. It is something that gets touched on in talking discussions every now and then but it turns into long and in depth conversations about where the world has gone

[@mykeldavis2308]

1000% agree on the respect and entitlement. I see it in my workplace on the daily it’s crazy people don’t want to earn they way no more and grind for it they just want everything given to them. I also see this outside of work amongst family and friends and I usually don’t make comments but this issue has definitely been an eye-opener for me. The work ethic in general from people is missing.

[@obiesimonis3148]

Respect JJ, Dame is the man thanks for bringing us the inside look.

[@Avglngth]

Dame is so down to earth even with all the fortune and fame. I hope he wins a chip

[@saatersamsonawuapila607]

I respect him a lot for staying loyal to the franchise

[@erenjaeger1475]

Portland has done nothing for Dame 😂

[@flex407]

Portland is broke and woke!. He won't get the help unless dame takes a pay cut. Sadly but it's the truth. No superstar wants to go to Portland and if they do its only for a little while or a older guy out of his prime. It's up to dame

[@feedthesnake3394]

This is why this podcast is fire. It pivots to real talk, when espn is spinning the hype. Thank you Dame. Thank you jj.

[@martyg2333]

The only problem I’ve had with JJ Reddick was his comment about older players being plumbers like he needs to STFU about that for real. Other than that I hope he keeps doing what he’s doing cuz this is good content.

[@jerodtabb311]

The only problem I had wit JJ is that he was soft on Ben Simmons and not really been real with dawg 💯💪 Great Podcast tho 💯💪 love it