If you're a basketball fan, you've undoubtedly heard of Damian Lillard. The Portland Trail Blazers superstar has become one of the most exciting players in the league, known for his clutch performances and incredible shooting ability.
But where did Lillard come from, and how did he become one of the NBA's top players?
Where is Damian Lillard Coming from?
Damian Lillard was born on July 15, 1990, and comes from Oakland, California. He grew up in a tough neighborhood and learned the value of hard work and determination at an early age.
Lillard attended Oakland High School, where he became a standout player on the basketball team.
He averaged 22.4 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game as a senior, earning him first-team All-League honors.
After graduating from high school, Lillard received scholarship offers from several colleges.
He ultimately decided to attend Weber State University in Utah, where he quickly established himself as one of the top players in the Big Sky Conference.
As a freshman, Lillard averaged 11.5 points and 3.9 rebounds per game and was named the conference's Freshman of the Year.
He continued to improve over the next two seasons, averaging 19.9 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game as a junior and 24.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game as a senior.
Lillard's impressive college career caught the attention of NBA scouts, and he was selected with the sixth overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers.
He quickly established himself as one of the league's top rookies, averaging 19.0 points, 6.5 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game and winning the NBA Rookie of the Year award.
Lillard has continued to excel in the NBA, becoming one of the league's top point guards and earning numerous accolades.
He's been named an NBA All-Star six times, has been selected to the All-NBA First Team three times, and has won the NBA Skills Challenge three times.
Lillard is also known for his clutch performances, hitting several game-winning shots throughout his career, including a 37-foot buzzer-beater to eliminate the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the 2019 playoffs.
While Lillard is best known for his basketball skills, he's also made a name for himself off the court.
He's a talented rapper and has released several albums under the name Dame D.O.L.L.A. (which stands for “Different On Levels the Lord Allows”).
Lillard has also been active in social justice causes, using his platform to advocate for racial equality and police reform.
Source: Mckpage.com