Damian Lillard reflects on playing alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks before returning to Portland.
Damian Lillard recently opened up about his two-year stint with the Milwaukee Bucks and his eventual return to the Portland Trail Blazers. The veteran guard reflected on the unique experience of playing outside of his longtime franchise home,, according to information published by bleache.
The blockbuster trade in September 2023 sent Lillard from Portland to Milwaukee to join forces with two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. Expectations soared as the Bucks aimed for another championship run following their title success just two years prior.
Despite early season success and a 30-13 start under head coach Adrian Griffin, the team faced turbulence. Following leadership changes and postseason hurdles, Lillard ultimately found his way back to Portland during the offseason,, according to information published by bleache.
Damian Lillard Giannis Antetokounmpo partnership
Lillard praised his time playing alongside the star forward in Milwaukee. He described the partnership as a luxury he had not previously experienced during his eleven seasons in Portland,, according to information published by bleache.
The star guard highlighted Antetokounmpo's elite level of competition and consistency on the court. Working with a player who showed up and competed every night was a fun experience for the veteran guard,, according to information published by bleache.
Milwaukee Bucks coaching and playoff struggles
The Bucks opened the 2023-24 season strongly before replacing head coach Adrian Griffin with Doc Rivers. Milwaukee finished that campaign with a 49-33 record but suffered a first-round playoff exit without Antetokounmpo.
The following season brought another playoff appearance, but the team stalled again in the first round after Lillard suffered a torn Achilles. Following the injury, the nine-time All-Star was waived by the franchise during the offseason,, according to information published by bleache.
Return to the Portland Trail Blazers
After being waived by Milwaukee, Lillard returned to the Portland Trail Blazers on a three-year contract worth $42 million. Having spent the first eleven seasons of his career there, he established himself as a true franchise icon.
Lillard missed the 2025-26 NBA season while recovering from his severe Achilles injury. Now fully healthy, Portland's all-time leading scorer has returned to the court to begin his 2026-27 campaign with the team,, according to information published by bleache.
Reflecting on home and future outlook
Despite the high-profile tenure in Wisconsin, Lillard admitted that the environment ultimately did not feel like his true home. The deep-rooted connection to the city of Portland remained unmatched throughout his career.
As he steps back onto the court for the Trail Blazers, Lillard has already made an impact by scoring 44 points and dishing out eight assists across his first two appearances of the new season,, according to information published by bleache.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Damian Lillard leave the Milwaukee Bucks?
Damian Lillard was waived by the Milwaukee Bucks during the offseason following a two-year stint marked by coaching changes and postseason injuries.
How many seasons did Damian Lillard play for Portland originally?
Damian Lillard spent the first 11 seasons of his NBA career with the Portland Trail Blazers before his trade to Milwaukee.
What contract did Damian Lillard sign with the Trail Blazers?
Damian Lillard returned to the Portland Trail Blazers by signing a three-year contract worth $42 million.
Who did Damian Lillard play with in Milwaukee?
In Milwaukee, Damian Lillard teamed up with two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo to form a formidable star duo for the Bucks.
