In the high-stakes world of the NBA, where careers are often measured in buzzer-beaters and playoff runs, Damian Lillard, affectionately known as “Dame Time”, is currently navigating his most challenging chapter yet. As of March 2026, the legendary point guard has returned to his roots, seeking both physical recovery and personal peace.
After a whirlwind tenure in Milwaukee, Lillard is back in the Pacific Northwest, focusing on a long road to rehabilitation while cementing his legacy as one of the greatest shooters to ever grace the hardwood.
Damian Lillard Biography
Born Damian Lamonte Ollie Lillard Sr. on July 15, 1990, in Oakland, California, Lillard’s journey is a testament to the “Oakland tough” mentality. Emerging from Weber State, a mid-major program where he was twice named Big Sky Player of the Year, he defied the odds to become the 6th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft.
For over a decade, Lillard was the heartbeat of the Portland Trail Blazers, setting franchise records and delivering some of the most iconic “cold-blooded” moments in sports history. Beyond the court, he is a respected hip-hop artist under the moniker Dame D.O.L.L.A. and a prominent community leader.
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Career
Lillard’s career has been a masterclass in loyalty and elite performance:
- The Portland Icon (2012–2023): 11 seasons where he became the franchise’s all-time leading scorer and led the team to the 2019 Western Conference Finals.
- The Milwaukee Experiment (2023–2025): A blockbuster trade to the Bucks saw him join forces with Giannis Antetokounmpo, resulting in an NBA Cup victory and his 9th All-Star selection.
- The Return (2025–Present): Following a release by the Bucks due to cap space maneuvers and a devastating injury, Lillard signed a three-year, $42 million deal to rejoin the Trail Blazers in July 2025.
- Accolades: A 9-time All-Star, 7-time All-NBA selection, and a member of the prestigious NBA 75th Anniversary Team.
Damian Lillard Stats
While his current season is sidelined, Lillard’s career numbers speak for themselves. As of early 2026:
- Total Points: 21,151+ (continuing to climb the all-time list).
- Three-Pointers Made: 2,851+ (currently 4th all-time in NBA history).
- Career Average: Roughly 25.1 PPG and 6.7 APG.
- Post-Season: Known for his elevated play, averaging over 25 points per game in the playoffs throughout his career.
Damian Lillard Net Worth
As of March 2026, Damian Lillard’s net worth is estimated at $140 million. His wealth grew by over $365 million in career NBA earnings and a massive lifetime contract with Adidas signed in 2024. Additionally, his diverse portfolio includes a stake in a Toyota dealership in Oregon and high-profile partnerships with Tissot, Gatorade, and Biofreeze.
Family
Family has always been Lillard’s “Why.” He is a devoted father to three children: Damian Jr. (born 2018) and twins Kalii and Kali (born 2021). His decision to return to Portland in 2025 was primarily driven by a desire to be physically present for his kids and stay close to his mother, Gina Johnson, and his siblings.
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Personal Life and Headlines
Damian Lillard and Kay’La Hanson
Lillard’s long-term relationship with his college sweetheart, Kay’La Hanson, was a cornerstone of his public image for years. The couple married in a star-studded ceremony in September 2021. However, the transition to Milwaukee took a toll on their personal lives, leading Lillard to file for divorce in October 2023, citing “irreconcilable differences.” In 2026, the two continue to focus on co-parenting their three children in Portland.
Damian Lillard and GloRilla
In early 2024, rapper GloRilla famously “shot her shot” at Lillard on social media after they met at the NBA All-Star Game. The interaction sparked months of dating rumors and memes. However, during the 2024 NBA Media Day and subsequent interviews in 2025, Lillard officially shut down the speculation, stating, “There’s nothing going on… I respect her as an artist, but we just know each other.”
Controversies
- The Trade Saga (2023): Lillard’s initial request to move specifically to the Miami Heat caused a rift with the Blazers’ front office and led to a league-wide memo regarding trade demand protocols.
- Injury Setbacks (2025–2026): In April 2025, Lillard suffered a torn left Achilles tendon during the playoffs. This devastating injury has forced him to miss the entire 2025-26 season for rehabilitation.
- The Bucks Release: His unexpected release from Milwaukee in 2025 sparked debate over team loyalty and the “business side” of the NBA, though it ultimately allowed his homecoming to Portland.
Damian Lillard’s Age
As of today, March 10, 2026, Damian Lillard is 35 years old. He will celebrate his 36th birthday on July 15, 2026.
Damian Lillard Instagram
With over 9.9 million followers, Lillard’s Instagram (@damianlillard) has shifted in 2026 from highlight reels to “The Grind” of recovery. His recent posts feature:
- Rehab Diaries: Footage of his Achilles recovery and gym sessions.
- Dad Mode: Heartfelt photos with his children in the Portland suburbs.
- Dame D.O.L.L.A. Snippets: Teasers for new music expected in late 2026.
Conclusion
Damian Lillard enters 2026 as a legend in transition. While the “Dame Time” clock is currently paused on the court, his impact as a father, artist, and Portland icon is stronger than ever. The NBA world is eagerly awaiting his projected return for the 2026-2027 season.
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