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🏀 Why Did Dame Lillard Stay in Portland?

🏀 Why Did Dame Lillard Stay in Portland?

Chris Lesiak
October 03, 2022

Damian Lillard reveals why he stayed with the Portland Trail Blazers, Celtics coach Ime Udoka found using crude language with female subordinate, and Giannis speaks on his retirement plans.

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DAMIAN LILLARD

Damian Lillard Reveals Why He Stayed With the Portland Trail Blazers

There is no question that Damian Lillard has been extremely loyal to the Portland Trail Blazers. Since arriving in Portland in 2012, Dame has recently doubled down on his loyalty by signing a two-year extension with the team. However, before signing the deal there were many rumors about Dame potentially playing elsewhere due to the Blazers’ first round playoff loss which he quickly shot down.

Dame recently talked about why one of the key reasons he stayed in Portland was because of the opportunity to pass NBA legend, Clyde Drexler, as the franchise’s all time leading scorer. “Just the respect I have for the organization and for Clyde and how great of a player he was. I think it shows just how productive I’ve been throughout my career. It would truly be an honor.”

Lillard only needs 531 more points to pass Drexler’s franchise record. With a career average of 24.6 PPG, Lillard would only need about 22 games to pass this legendary achievement.

BOSTON CELTICS

Celtics Coach Ime Udoka Found Using Crude Language With Female Subordinate

A recent investigation was launched revolving around Celtics head coach, Ime Udoka, and his relationship with his female partner at work. An independent law firm found that Ime had used crude language in his dialogue with a female subordinate prior to the start of an improper workplace relationship with the woman. This played a giant factor in the decision to suspend Ime for the entire 2022-23 season.

Last week, Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck said in a news conference that the suspension was a product of multiple violations of team policies. Furthermore, the Celtics have come out and said they will not stay in Udoka’s way if another team decides to pursue him for a coaching job. Grousbeck also noted that Udoka will be receiving a cut in his salary during the suspension. Based on the findings of the investigation, Grousbeck defended the Celtics decision to suspend Udoka for the entire season.

GIANNIS ANTETOKOUNMPO

Giannis Speaks On His Retirement Plans

Giannis Antetokounmpo has been continuing his media tour recently as he continues to show off his outgoing personality. On Saturday, Giannis shared his retirement plans and how he wants to follow in the footsteps of recently retired NBA legend, Tim Duncan.

Instead of living the retirement life in the spotlight he would much rather lay low. Giannis told reporters, “When I retire from this game I want to disappear. I want to be like Tim Duncan. Where the hell is Tim Duncan?!”

Giannis is entering his 10th season in the NBA as he looks to continue to dominate his competition. The 27 year old superstar already has many accolades under his belt such as an NBA title, two MVPs, and a finals MVP. I think it is safe to say Giannis has no plans of retiring from the NBA any time soon!