Damian Lillard Receiving Bucks' Video Tribute for 2-Season Stint Baffles NBA Fans

NBA: Los Angeles Lakers at Portland Trail Blazers - Source: Imagn
NBA: Los Angeles Lakers at Portland Trail Blazers - Source: Imagn

The Portland Trail Blazers wrapped up their road trip with a stop in Wisconsin to face the Milwaukee Bucks. Before the game tipped off at Fiserv Forum, the Bucks surprised many by playing a tribute video for Damian Lillard, honoring his short stint with the team.

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The gesture immediately resulted in confusion and criticism from fans. Many could not understand why a player who only spent two seasons in Milwaukee and was eventually waived would receive such a tribute.

“Tribute for what lmfao,” @MapleBruin said.

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“I'm not trying to be a hater but why does Dame deserve a tribute video? He didn't do anything for the bucks he was injured for the most part,” @Luka77_x wrote.
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“tribute video for accomplishing nothing lmao,” @meloball02 said.
“They really made him a video? lol,” @Cooked_By_Curry said.
“They giving tributes out for participating awards,” @BlackMaverickk said.
“Same team who kicked him to the curb like he was a scrub,” @LayedByBron wrote.

Damian Lillard appeared in only 131 regular-season games during his time with the Bucks. His numbers fell below his career averages, finishing with 24.6 points per game on 43.4% FG and 36.4% from three-point land.

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His addition was expected to help keep Milwaukee in title contention. However, the Bucks failed to come close to repeating the success of their 2021 championship run. They were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs in both 2024 and 2025, suffering series losses against the Indiana Pacers on both occasions.

Damian Lillard catches up with Antetokounmpo brothers during pregame shootaround

Damian Lillard is expected to sit out the entire 2025–26 regular season while he recovers from his Achilles injury. However, there was a great sign of progress recently. Before Monday’s game between the Portland Trail Blazers and the Milwaukee Bucks, Lillard headed onto the floor to get some shots up.

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From what clips suggest, Dame worked on catch and shoot attempts and even mixed in off-the-dribble shots, including stepbacks and sidestep three pointers.

During warmups, Lillard also shared a lighthearted moment with a few of his former teammates. Cameras caught him laughing with Thanasis and Giannis Antetokounmpo, which made the moment even better for fans watching.

He then watched from the sidelines as his Blazers secured a 115-103 victory, backed by Jerami Grant's 35-point explosion.

Milwaukee Bucks Fans? Check out the latest Milwaukee Bucks depth chart, schedule, and roster updates all in one place.

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Edited by Advait Jajodia
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