After a two-year stint with the Milwaukee Bucks, Damian Lillard is back where he belongs, with the Portland Trail Blazers. The Bucks ended up waiving Lillard before the 2025-26 season began, allowing Portland to re-sign their favorite star.
And while his time with the Bucks was limited, the team and its fan base haven’t forgotten Lillard’s contributions. In fact, they had the perfect surprise waiting when Lillard returned to Milwaukee.
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Bucks Honor Trail Blazers Star Damian Lillard During Milwaukee Return
Recovering from an Achilles injury, Lillard was on the sidelines as the Trail Blazers took on the Bucks on Monday, Nov. 24.
The Bucks chose to honor Lillard, sharing a compilation of his game highlights on the jumbotron.
Bucks fans had nothing but love for Lillard as they cheered him on, hyping the 35-year-old’s return. Many took to appreciating his efforts, focusing on how Lillard gave the Bucks his all physically and mentally.
A warm welcome back for Damian Lillard. pic.twitter.com/RPiQrm0cwQ
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) November 25, 2025
Fans acknowledged missing Damian Lillard in a Bucks uniform, with some criticizing the front office for moving on from him so quickly. While a few labeled the nine-time All-Star as “washed,” many defended him, noting how effectively he played alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo.
An emotional Lillard was captured at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, taking in the moment. The star guard waved to the crowd as the video played, smiling faintly.
Lillard’s departure from the Bucks came as a surprise to many. Critics argued the team made a mistake, particularly given the impact he had alongside Antetokounmpo.
His on-court stats reflected his efforts, Lillard averaging 24.6 points, seven assists and 4.5 rebounds in his 131 games with the Bucks while shooting 43.4% from the field and 36.4% from the 3-point line. He also had a plus-minus of plus-442 for the Bucks, clearly outlining his impact on the team.
Lillard Knew He Would Be Going Back to Portland One Day
Though Lillard’s move from Milwaukee was abrupt, he hasn’t taken long to settle back in with Portland. While he is currently recovering, Lillard and the team have been working toward a strong comeback.
“I still think I have better moments ahead. Everything is happening in a weird way. What are the chances that I tear my Achilles and I get waived with two years left … and the first team I think of — and the first team that contacted me — is the Blazers?” Lillard said in an interview with the New York Times.
Lillard added that he had to go away from the Trail Blazers for the team to “assemble,” making it a team he wanted to play on for years.
“So now I have a year to connect with this team while building my body up to get ready to go,” Lillard concluded.
With Lillard sidelined, the Trail Blazers have secured a ninth spot in the Western Conference. The Bucks are ranked 11th in the East.