Damian Lillard On Why He Believes The NBA Is Changing For The Worse 

This conversation with Dame is one of the best ones we’ve ever had. We go deeper into conversations about life, competition and fulfillment. We also dig deep into scoring and shooting mechanics. Just an awesome interview with an awesome guy. The full thing drops first thing tomorrow morning so subscribe if you haven’t. Thanks for watching.

Dame is one of the last of his kind in the NBA. To be as talented as him and never abandon his journey despite what people want from him. Seems like one of the most down to earth athletes I’ve heard. Love this guy man

Safe to say that Dame is simply just in touch with reality. A superstar that holds himself with the rest of humanity.

My respect level for Dame just went up like 100%. Dude is on point. What he just mentioned is exactly why I have fallen out of love with the NBA since the mid - late 2000's

Dame is well anchored and has his head over his shoulder. A true role model to emulate, in his own words “I play with my kids, have real friends, visit my mom, and talk to my uncle about life” I admire his authenticity and love for the game not fame or money

Love the realness of this dude. “I have a real life” hits so hard, hes not focused on all the media bs about Portland never winning a ring, hes focused on being the best version of himself, as not only an NBA player but a husband, son, grandson, nephew, etc

Respect to Dame for being brave enough to say this. The NBA has gone from player empowerment to player enablement.

This man feels more at peace than most people than win a championship. He's already won life in my opinion

Not a Blazers fan, but really respect Lillard. The way he plays, his outlook on life, and his perspectives for the game and his life. He has a great grasp of context and is well-grounded. Wish you success, Damian, and based on this interview, I think you've already achieved the most important success in your life due to your own self-awareness.

Loved his answer “I have a life” because not just in the nba but society as a whole we have placed more value on social media life than ACTUAL real life. That’s insanity

As an NBA fan since the early 90s......thank God someone like Damian Lillard still exists......most of the basketball world has gone insane and integrity is out the door

Whether Portland wins a ring or not, they will be acknowledged for many years to come for drafting a gem like Dame. Like some of the greatest to ever compete at the professional level who remained loyal to one franchise, the franchise that drafted them, Karl Malone, Reggie Miller, and Patrick Ewing to name a few didn’t win rings but turned struggling franchises into top competitors. The groundbreaking salary given to Dame is to say thank you, thank you for your commitment, your loyalty, and not switching teams taking those exceptional skills elsewhere.

Dame is a real one. Talented, humble and seems like a real down to earth dude. Love his attitude to the game and life

How could you not be a fan of Damian Lillard...what a real humble human being and a real class act ...

Damian Lillard is what every NBA player should aspire to be. What a guy.

Dame has said time and time again about the journey and the love for the game. I hope more basketball fans can understand there's more to this game than just the ring culture. Great interview.

We sure could use a lot more people like Damian Lillard with his perspective, attitude, and values not just in basketball but in ALL walks of life. Great human being.

Ring or no ring dame time will always be one of my favorite players ever and nothing but respect to him. Stayed loyal, got his bag, legit carries Portland as much he can, hasn’t done one thing to make Portland look bad. He’s a great in my books

JJ is terrific at just allowing guys to talk. Gives them time to flesh out ideas, go off track and come back, and most importantly gives the space for vulnerability in their answers to exist before interjecting or redirecting

just listening to Dame from this makes me believe in him even more. Such a great Human being on and off the court. May God bless your heart 🙏🏽

This is why Damian Lillard is the NBA player I respect the most. Stays true to himself and doesn't get caught up in the noise. Who cares if lame dudes on twitter or whatever who have never played in the league want to criticize him for not winning a Championship? Dude has been a total star and has made his team better. He's an unbelievable player. Not every great player can or will win a ring! And it's not the only thing that matters in terms of success in NBA or LIFE! Shoutout Dame for being a total bucket but also for being humble.

This reminds me why Derrick Rose was so special when he came. That’s why he’s been so beloved, even now. He was the most humble superstar. He recognized he had to earn it even though he was a beast.

Dame is a class act, and he deserves everything he's got.

Man this is the most down to earth thoughtful and real NBA superstar. I have much more respect for superstars staying with a team, than shopping round for superteams just for winning a championship. He is a humble grown up man with integrity. Respect.

So much respect for Dame for telling it like it is..."I have a life." Family matters more than anything and he embodies that. Love it!

This interview with Dame is one of a kind. That right there shows the kind of man he is. Portland is super lucky to have him, ring or no ring.

I loved the point Dame makes about people ignoring the journey. I’m not sure how or who started it but it feels like players, fans, organisations and analysts (talking heads) just gave up on the journey of the regular season. It’s just so disappointing.

Damn they still have regular down to earth people like this in the NBA. Mama and Grandma must be on their knees daily praying for him. Hope he stays like this and don’t let those demons change him

This generation was still blessed to have a player like Dame... I hope the old tradition comeback slowly.

You can feel Dame's emotion shift when he said he didn't know if he could play that long in this league. He's a very honorable human being, and a phenomenal basketball player. I imagine those two forces must rip him apart on a daily basis.

One of the most authentic and honest conversations I’ve seen on the NBA and Sports in general 💯

JJ has been on fire this past month! Keep up the great work!

What us Blazer fans appreciate most about Dame is how he said he has a life outside basketball. We see that he moved his whole life meaning all his ppl out here to Portland. We see them he created a environment for them to succeed in their endeavors. They’ve become members of the community out here and successful ones at that too. He’s not leaving Portland this truly is his home not only him but his whole circle now. He’s a real dude.

We need more people like Dame in the world. He’s a ferocious competitor, one of the best in the world at what he does and he’s still able to keep everything in perspective despite the fame and fortune. Just a real, humble guy that loves his family and does what he needs to do to care for them and accomplish his own goals too. Dude’s an inspiration; a role model on and off the court. Love this man 👏🏻

7:32 and its the unfortunate truth as time just goes on but he will definitely be cemented in the game as one of the most underrated players of, i guess to put it, my generation.

Favorite player in the League. As a knicks fan if there was one player I wish would come to NY its dame but I respect his loyalty. Wish more players had this mindset.

Damian is an intelligent deep thinker. He understands that his life is much more than an NBA player. You can tell that he enjoys the game and is very good at it, but it's only one facet of his life. Best wishes my friend Damian. See you in the hall of fame.

My respect for this man has literally gone through the roof after seeing this. I completely agree. It's not just in the NBA either. I see this constantly in my everyday life. People look at others as just stepping stones.. There's no hierarchy or comradery. It's narcissism .. At it's core.

Dame Lilliard has been my favorite player to watch over the last 10 years. You could always tell how he carried himself different than a lot of other players in the league. I believe he is top 3 point gaurd to ever play the game, and that's saying a lot. He will hit Logo 3's all game and not act like a show-off everytime they go in. Also drop 50 on any given day. Much RESPECT!

I've always admired Dame's game. Listening to his perspective on the game increases my respect for him. I appreciate him sticking with Portland, trying to build a winning franchise in a smaller market.

Dame has become one of my favorite people in the NBA. He's got a non-toxic perspective about what it means to win. He just appreciates the value of his life on and off the court, and who it allows him to be. Seriously love that JJ just talks with players the as candidly as he does, and makes sure he's not putting his voice in their words.

Dame seems really down to Earth, grounded, humble, smart. How can anyone not like him. Great player, seems like an even greater person.

Dame has always been one of my favorites. I think just this solidifies this. Just a real person.

Played ball my whole life, I'm 41 now and can't watch a min of nba without having to change the channel. It reminds me of open gym days. Chucking 3s, i think more 3s chucked up then open gym lol, no D played, bad refs, lots and lots of whining and stars making an absurd amount of money and sitting games especially when not injured.... Its unreal that I can't stand it when I loved the game for so long.

Stuff like this is why Dame and Giannis are BY FAR my 2 favorite players in the NBA.

Sounds like he has genuine family and friends in his life who have no nefarious agendas which is such a blessing for someone in his position, and something that seems rare for a lot of the younger stars coming into the league. I love that he can kick it with his cousins and talk about normal non-NBA friendship stuff. Must be a big reason he's so grounded and at peace with his life.

Great questions. I love how honest Damian was when asked about differences now.

Dame one of the few active players to be able to say what he’s saying. He came into this league fighting for his spot, taking what he deserves. The multiple all star snubs, playing behind Aldridge, etc. nothing was given to dame. He earned his spot.

My respect for Dame Lillard just skyrocketed. The part where he talks about his best friend is sth else. In a world of clicks, likes, and tweets this guy talks about real friendship. I tip my imaginary hat to you. This guy should be regarded as a role model, not the Ja Morants of the world.

Always loved Lilliard, but he’s quickly become one of my favorite players after learning more about the actual person he is. This man’s integrity, maturity, earnestness… man so few left of these in the nba and honestly the world lol

I have never listened to Dame talk at length like this. Brother is calm, considered, thoughtful.

We got to appreciate Damian Lillard while he's still in the league man ! True dedication to the sport, true leadership off the court, half a billion dollars in earnings and still humble. Got to love Damian Lillard 💪🏾💪🏾🤙🏾

That's exactly what D.Rose is doing at the Knicks. He been guiding all these young dudes for the better ❤

Happy to hear someone in the league say this. Been saying this for years and as much as I love the game and never thought I wouldn’t watch it, I had to stop watching the NBA three years ago. Got tired of watching it and being upset for various reasons for 48 minutes. I feel like I made the best decision for my sanity but do miss guys like Dame who you can tell love the game.

Wow this makes me love Damian even more. Very well said, and Dame, there are a ton of fans who are seeing the same thing. It’s sad. Also, Damian 100% earned his own respect 🫡

Humble personalities like Dame are why people watch the NBA

Honestly bro, this dude is just so down to earth. Prob the realest sportsmen I've ever seen. Humble, honest and relatable. I wish him nothing but all the best in his career and life.

Damian is grounded and he is a level thinker which makes for a great human being who knows and understands his shortcomings and then tries to improve himself from those human traits. He would make for a great coach and leader in his community. Keep doing well Damian you're on the right track.

Damien Lillard is so right. I really appreciate his game and his commitment to it. More importantly, his honesty and character on and off the court. Mr. Lillard you are one of my favorite players, you can definitely play my brother. May God continue to Bless You and Your Family! 😊😊

Dirk, Kobe, Dame, Duncan and other extremely loyal players are very appreciated. Many fans will always respect the hell out of loyalty

I’m a lifelong Blazers fan, born and raised 20 minutes from Portland. Damian Lillard has been such a remarkable role model for thousands and thousands of young men, and the same can’t be said for many of the other greatest NBA players of all time. The people outside of Portland just don’t get it the way real Portland fans do. Dame is just on another wavelength. Can’t wait for the rest of this episode!

First time watching your channel JJ. Im impressed with the thoughtfulness of Dame and your interview skills. Subscribing!

Love this dude, talk about being down to earth and humble. And he's speaking facts here

Dame is speaking facts! He is in that category about earning and working for your goals.

I can't wait for the full episode to drop. Being a Portland native, obviously I love Dame, but even if he weren't he's the type of dude you can't help but to root for and to love. I think I can speak for all Portland fans when I say we are so fortunate to have a player like Dame on our team.

I was in 9th grade when dame got drafted ive been in awe and A fan of( him) since his rookie year 💯we Will be talking about Dame Cause he A real One 💎 in rough 🏀

2:11 New to the NBA. What players do you think he's talking about here?

Damian Lillard is one of the most real and grounded players of ever seen. I’ve always loved him for his play but hearing how thoughtful and eloquent he is, makes me respect him even more. Thank you JJ for the interview! And that’s coming from a UNC fan.

The most damaging thing that’s ever happened to basketball culture, is how we have started to talk about the game like it’s a singles sport, as compared to a team sport. It’s all about your rings, your stats. As dame says, young guys with talent come in, the keys are handed off before they’ve even earned it. I feel like most of these issues wouldn’t be there if fans and media didn’t focus so much on the individuals and their “all time ranking” and stuff like that as much.

I love Dame and the way he thinks. He’s not just going to join a team because he wants a championship and he’s not worried about it if he doesn’t win a championship.

And Lillard is such a nice, humble, normal guy beside beeing a real superstar. Respect bro!

You can tell Damian loves life and lives life one day at a time. His perspective is so humble but honest. Respect !

The first part about vets and the second part about having a real life go hand in hand nicely. Those vets also were more likely to have families, have stable social circles, and could teach young players both directly and by example about having an NBA work-life balance. That's a healthy league wide culture.

What a grounded person, can't be easy but boy is he doing it. Great to hear and see

Great conversation. Lillard's comments on the current NBA are right on point AND right on time. The game today is what it is but it certainly isn't the best version of the game.

Showing respect to the OGs by telling some stories when he was a rookie, and telling us how he can manage his inner peace, this 9-minute video is worth it. Whether he gets a ring or not, it'll be sure that he's gonna be one of the most beloved players not only in Portland but also in the world

Dame is a legend man. Few of his breed remain in the NBA. Dude inspires you in ways that's way bigger than basketball. Salute and respect.

The most balanced take I've heard on player's attitude towards the game today. Chips will always be a dominant metric, and rightfully so, but at the end of the day these guys are just doing what they're being paid to do. It's a vanishingly small percentage of NBA players who will ever get a single ring, never mind four or five; for the vast majority of the guys who lace them up every night, being a consistent, reliable professional is all they can reasonably be expected to aspire to. Ball is not, in fact, life.

I always liked Dame, and now with him explaining how he has a regular everyday life outside the NBA.... this dude knows how to bring balance into his life.

6:17 I laughed so hard when he said that. Its such a simple thing but when your intoxicated with fame, girls and money, simple things in life disappear. Dame is truly a gem. In Manchester United, we had a legend called Scholes. He just used to play the game and go home to his kids. No media interview and no partying.

New favorite player. Love the journey, love life, love yourself. Do you Dame.

Always loved Dame. Down to earth guy. In touch with reality

I starting getting into the NBA in the early 2000's, I'm no longer a fan now, but hearing Dame talk about ring culture resonates with me. When I think back to my fondest memories of watching the NBA, who won a ring doesn't stand out to me. I remember T-Mac scoring 13 in 33 seconds, not believing what I was seeing. Kobe dropping 81 points. The awesome rivalry games between the Kings and the Lakers. How fun it was watching Richard Jefferson, Kerry Kittles and Jason Kidd play together; Steve Nash, Nowitzki and Michael Finley on the mavericks; Allen Iverson mentoring a young Kyle Korver on the Sixers. Watching Yao Ming and Shaq go head to head. Charles Barkley yelling "GINOBLI!!!" as a commentator. The Malice at the Palace, although that's not really the happiest of situations, but still was crazy memory seeing that unfold live. So in the end, the destination of winning a ring doesn't leave as lasting an impression as the experiences you have along the way as a team. At least to me. Obviously the goal is to win a ring, but making the entire game revolve around only that mattering is a mistake. The journey matters more than the destination. I never was a Trailblazers fan, but much respect to Dame for sticking with his team. I'm sure that means more to his fans than any amount of rings he will win or could've won.

Man I wish this video was longer. Such a deep and authentic discussion. Such a breath of fresh air to hear such a discussion

JJ can really Grow into the Biggest Sports Journalist. Such a Mindful Guy . Great Interview Love You Guys

I hear you Damian. I can’t watch the NBA like I use to. He hit it on the nail. Now I understand why he is his own man. He is the unique guy not everyone else everyone else is a clone, Dame is a leader.

Damian is a real stand up dude. Love hearing him and his perspective. One of my favorite players and I am a Laker fan.

It's honestly insane this guy gets criticised for not wanting enough to win a ring that he'd ask to be traded. He's exactly everything we constantly say we want from NBA stars - loyalty, leadership, class, and real love for the city and the franchise. But when we get it instead of appreciating it we act like hypocrits and criticse that too... props to you Dame for keeping it real, tuning out the noise and being true to yourself 💜🙌

Great interview great basketball minds and super interesting real points. Thanks guys

this conversation is soooo refreshing.

At 1st when DAME signed the extension I thought he was crazy bc his chance to win is slim to none. After hearing him talk & explain I respect his decision that much more. He's 1 of a kind.

Damn I could listen to him all day. Dame is built different and you can tell he's a very humble person. He is definitely one of the players out there that deserves a ring.

Dame perspectives on life and career is very admirable. His take on ring chasers speaks well of his understanding of, the thrill of competition and measuring one's ability and will to succeed. Ring chasers are like those children who cry if they don't get a medal. I agreed with his position on the NBA not being so fun amymore. Its stupid to watch unbalanced competition. Much respect to Dame.

Dame hit it on the money!! Respect and entitlement. It's all well and good that these new cats come in with all this talent but vets are needed to guide them in how to conduct themselves as professionals and have long careers and humble themselves The NBA is a mirror and microcosm of life. I see this every day on my job on a different plane than professional sports but still. The work ethic is missing and people want to shoot straight to the goal and certain positions without grinding for it and displaying grit. It is something that gets touched on in talking discussions every now and then but it turns into long and in depth conversations about where the world has gone

Dame has always been my favorite PG since he got drafted. I'm so glad his attitude never really changed.

Dame is so down to earth even with all the fortune and fame. I hope he wins a chip

Dame is one of my all time favs !!! BAY AREAAAAAA !!!

Damn listening to Dame is like comforting or something. Very genuine!

Wow what a powerful message Dame had. The guy is living his life the right way and I'm happy he enjoys his life with his family and friends. He seems like a very level headed and smart guy.

I’ll be thinking about Dame. My buddy and I were watching it live when Dame knocked OKC out the playoffs and waved goodbye. That was one of the boldest plays I’ve ever seen and one of my favorite memories with my bud. We talk about it all the time. Dame makes you love watching basketball and that’s why we’ll remember him. #DameTimeAlltheTime