David Vanterpool referred to as Damian Lillard’s homecoming to Portland “one of the best” in a wide-ranging interview with Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson.
Vanterpool emphasised the non-public facet of Lillard’s transfer, saying the return offers the veteran “a chance to be round household and familiarity.”
The Wizards assistant coach praised what Portland means to Lillard off the court docket, noting that being near his children and family members issues to the star.
“That’s house for him,” Vanterpool advised Scoop B, pointing to the consolation and assist Lillard regains in Portland.
Vanterpool additionally referenced Lillard’s resilience after severe well being setbacks, together with a cleared deep vein thrombosis and a season-ending torn Achilles.
“I don’t anticipate something lower than that,” Vanterpool stated when discussing Dame’s capability to return and carry out at an elite stage.
Lillard’s official signing with Portland on July 19 — a three-year deal — reunited him with the franchise that made him a star and provides the Path Blazers a transparent chief. The transfer got here after Milwaukee waived and stretched the remaining wage on Lillard’s prior contract earlier in July.
Vanterpool, who has coached and mentored gamers throughout the league, framed the signing as each a basketball and a human story. He advised that, past Xs-and-Os, Lillard’s presence restores id and stability to a franchise and fan base which have lengthy cherished him.
The coach additionally highlighted the emotional facet: Lillard’s want to be the place he feels rooted and the ripple results that creates in a locker room. That family-first angle, Vanterpool stated, will be as necessary to on-court efficiency as any schematic adjustment.
