PORTLAND, Ore. – The shocking news of Damian Lillard’s season-ending Achilles injury sent ripples through Portland, reverberating far beyond the NBA playoffs.
When students at H.B. Lee Middle School returned Monday morning, the atmosphere was heavy with disappointment, as reported by seventh-grade teacher Sunil Schauffler.
“The students were visibly affected,” Schauffler stated. “It was clear that they cared deeply. Even middle school kids, who usually don’t express such feelings, were talking about it. The first thing they wanted to know was, ‘Did you hear? Did you hear?’
At Big’s Chicken in southeast Portland, the news blindsided server Matt Csejtey during his shift, eliciting a deeply emotional reaction.
“I was bummed… really bummed out,” Csejtey reflected. “He’s been like a backbone to this city for so long, and it’s tough knowing he’s going to be out for another year.
For many Portlanders, Lillard represented an inspiring figure, embodying the spirit of the city more than any other player. Despite his trade request in 2023 and two seasons away from the team, Lillard remains a beloved figure in the eyes of the community.
Ricky Bella, a 34-year-old chef and owner of Palomar, encapsulated this sentiment when he said, “He was something for us all to latch onto. We all probably knew we weren’t going to win a championship, but watching Dame play was like a celebration in itself.”
Portland’s connection with its athletes is palpable, and Lillard resonated profoundly with local residents who saw a reflection of their struggles in him. He was perceived as an underdog: overlooked and underestimated, yet relentless in his pursuits.
Schauffler explained, “He symbolizes what Portland is all about. He was an underdog from a small school, not heavily recruited. We’re not a big city, and every little triumph feels significant to us. Dame encapsulated that spirit.”
Lillard’s commitment to Portland was evident in his lifestyle choices. He lived year-round in the city and often spoke about his dreams of a championship parade downtown.
Troy Douglass, the owner of Back to the Basket, noted that Lillard had created a profound sense of loyalty, not only through his on-court performances but also by expressing a genuine desire to be part of Portland.
“We were one of the three O’s. It was really cool to see a player that actually wanted to be here in Portland,” Douglass remarked.
Lillard’s iconic moments further solidified his legacy: his legendary game-winner against Houston in 2014 and the memorable buzzer-beater against Oklahoma City in 2019 set him apart as a local legend.
Even when he requested a trade, the city did not harbor anger; rather, they understood his desire to pursue a championship elsewhere. Bella shared, “When he left, I totally got it. I was never mad for a second. Milwaukee became my second favorite team.”
For many Portlanders, Lillard is intertwined with their life events. Bella shared that he landed his first job as a chef during Lillard’s rookie season.
Douglass, the store owner, established his business in 2020 after Lillard wore one of his caps during that unforgettable playoff shot.
Furthermore, Patrick McKee, the owner and chef of Estes Ristorante, recounted an unforgettable dinner in 2022 attended by Lillard. After the dinner, Lillard took the time to thank each chef individually, a gesture that left a lasting impression on McKee.
Lillard had the uncanny ability to connect with the community, and McKee recalls Lillard’s reflections on pressure — his comments resonated with many.
“What he said about real pressure being a single mom raising kids or a blue-collar job really stuck with me,” McKee remembered. “It made me realize his perspective extended beyond just sports.”
The night following Lillard’s injury saw a collective groan resonate through Portland. With the Blazers’ season already over, many were left cheering for Lillard in Milwaukee — until that dream was shattered.
As Schauffler reflected on the situation, he revealed his emotional struggle. “I’m not a crier, but last night was the closest I came to crying since that 2000 Western Conference finals loss to the Lakers. This is about one dude, not a team. I didn’t care if Milwaukee wins; I just wanted Dame to win. Now, I don’t know if that will ever happen.”
In summary, Portland has experienced a profound sense of loss as a result of Lillard’s injury. From students at H.B. Lee Middle School to business owners across the city, Lillard’s impact is undeniable. He was more than just an athlete; he was a symbol of hope and resilience for a community that values authenticity and loyalty.
image source from：https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6319348/2025/04/29/damian-lillard-achilles-injury-blazers-legacy/
