Damian Lillard’s Emotional Struggle: NBA Star Opens Up About Divorce and Mental Toll
Eight-time NBA All-Star Damian Lillard bared his soul to the media, unveiling the weight of his struggles in the aftermath of a disappointing season with the Milwaukee Bucks. Amidst an impending divorce, Lillard acknowledged the toll it has taken on his mental well-being, leaving him grappling with the challenge of finding solace on and off the court.
Reflecting on the period between his trade request and the eventual agreement with the Trail Blazers, Lillard leaned on a select group of close friends and relatives, engaged in Bible study, and embraced open dialogue. The impending divorce, while not public at the time, loomed as a significant personal challenge that hindered his ability to engage in rigorous offseason training.
Lillard’s candid admission resonates with the complexities of navigating life as a seasoned NBA player, a father of three, and someone undergoing a major life transition. He emphasized, “As much as I love basketball, and I love my job, I don’t care about it more than I care about my kids.”
The star guard’s struggle to settle into his new environment with the Bucks is evident. Having been a top-15 player in Portland, Lillard now grapples with adapting to a different role and offensive dynamic. His statistics in Portland, including a career-high 32.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game in his final season with the Trail Blazers, underscore the challenge of acclimating to a new team and system.
Despite the high expectations for Lillard and reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks have faced a rocky journey marked by coaching changes and a reported inconsistent locker room atmosphere. The departure of Terry Stotts and the midseason dismissal of head coach Adrian Gryphon added to the team’s challenges, creating an environment that mirrored their on-court struggles.
With a current record of 32-16, the Bucks, on the surface, may seem dysfunctional. However, the turbulence in their journey predates the season, and the hope for a turnaround rests on the leadership of Doc Rivers. The coaching change is viewed as a potential catalyst for improvement, but with a 0-2 record under Rivers so far, the Bucks are yet to find the winning rhythm they seek.
The narrative surrounding Damian Lillard encapsulates the intertwining of personal struggles and professional challenges, shedding light on the intricate balance that athletes navigate beyond the basketball court.
“As much as I love basketball, and I love my job, I don’t care about it more than I care about my kids. Of course you carry it with you,”
Lillard continued:
“People say, ‘When I hoop I ain’t thinking about nothing,’ but I’m not 21. I got three kids. I’m tight with my family and I’m going through a divorce.” Said Lillard via Yahoo Sports
