Who Is Damian Lillard?
Damian Lamonte Ollie Lillard Sr. (born July 15, 1990) is an American professional basketball player widely regarded as one of the elite point guards of his generation. Known for his deep shooting range, leadership, and “Dame Time” clutch moments, Lillard has been an All-Star multiple times and a consistent scoring force in the NBA.
How Tall Is Damian Lillard?
Height plays a crucial role in basketball, especially for guards navigating elite defenders. Damian Lillard is listed at 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) tall — a height that’s slightly below the NBA average for point guards but one he compensates for with elite skill, agility, and basketball IQ.
Why Isn’t Damian Lillard Playing?
Major Injury – Torn Achilles Tendon
Lillard’s recent absence stems from a torn left Achilles tendon suffered during the 2025 NBA Playoffs while playing for the Milwaukee Bucks — the team he joined after a blockbuster trade from the Portland Trail Blazers. An Achilles tear is one of the most serious injuries in professional sports, often requiring surgery and an extensive rehab period that can span 9–12+ months. This injury immediately ruled him out for the rest of the 2025 postseason and raised questions about his participation in the 2025-26 NBA season.
After the injury, Lillard underwent successful surgery, but recovery from a torn Achilles — especially at age 35 — requires immense caution, precision rehabilitation, and time to rebuild strength, explosiveness, and confidence in the injured tendon.
Other Health Issues: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Before the Achilles injury, Lillard was sidelined earlier in the 2024-25 season with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) — a blood clot in his right calf. This mysterious condition kept him out of games and required strict medical monitoring. While he was cleared from the blood clot and even returned to play briefly during the 2025 playoffs, the combination of DVT and his later Achilles tear changed the trajectory of his season drastically.
When Is Damian Lillard Coming Back?
2025-26 Season Status
As of the latest update, Damian Lillard has confirmed that he does not plan to play during the 2025-26 NBA season. During the Portland Trail Blazers 2025 Media Day, Lillard indicated that he was focused on full recovery from his Achilles injury and hinted that a return this season was unlikely.
Lillard emphasized that rushing a comeback from an Achilles tear — particularly at his age — could jeopardize long-term health and performance. That’s why his priority remains being 100% healthy before returning to competition.
Why Return Timing Matters
Achilles tears are significantly different from more common injuries like sprained ankles or muscle strains. The tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone and plays a central role in jumping, explosive movement, and quick direction changes — all critical for an NBA guard. Recovery timelines vary, but many elite athletes often return 9–12+ months after surgery, depending on age, rehab progress, and individual physiology.
Because Damian is in his mid-30s — an age where recovery naturally slows — coaches, trainers, and medical staff are especially cautious. Returning too early could lead to setbacks or reinjury, which the Blazers and Lillard want to avoid at all costs.
Lillard’s Career Path Post-Injury
After being waived by the Bucks post-Achilles injury, Lillard made a heartfelt return to the Portland Trail Blazers — the franchise where he rose to NBA stardom. Portland offered Lillard a new opportunity to rehab and potentially return on his own timeline while mentoring younger teammates and contributing off the court.
Inside Lillard’s Rehab and Mentality
Rehabilitation from an Achilles tear is as much mental as it is physical. Players often talk about rebuilding confidence to plant and push off the injured leg, trusting it again under game stress. Damian has publicly acknowledged the challenge and remains hopeful, optimistic, and committed to returning stronger than before — even if it requires patience and careful progression.
Performance Before Injury
Before these injuries, Lillard was one of the NBA’s top performers:
-
Multiple NBA All-Star selections
-
Led the league in scoring during peak seasons
-
Known for clutch late-game performances
-
Franchise leader in several statistical categories
His scoring prowess, deep range, and leadership made him a generational talent — one that teams relied on in clutch moments and playoff pushes.
Impact on the Trail Blazers
Lillard’s absence has heavily impacted the Trail Blazers’ competitive standing for the 2025-26 season. Without their veteran superstar both on and off the court, Portland has leaned on emerging players to step up. Nonetheless, Lillard’s influence remains significant in mentoring and shaping team culture as they navigate the season.
Summary: Where Things Stand
| Topic | Status |
|---|---|
| Current Playing Status | Not playing in 2025-26 season |
| Primary Injury | Torn Achilles tendon |
| Other Medical Issues | Previously treated deep vein thrombosis |
| Expected Return | Likely 2026-27 season (tentative) |
| Height | 6’2″ (188 cm) |
| Team | Portland Trail Blazers (after waiver from Bucks) |
FAQs – Damian Lillard Injury & Return
1. When will Damian Lillard return to the NBA?
Lillard has stated he does not plan to return during the 2025-26 season, focusing instead on full recovery from his Achilles injury. A full comeback is expected, if at all, for the 2026-27 season depending on his rehab progress.
2. Why is Damian Lillard not playing right now?
He suffered a torn left Achilles tendon in the 2025 playoffs and is currently sidelined while rehabbing that injury. Earlier in the previous season, he also dealt with deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot) in his right calf, complicating his recent medical history.
3. How tall is Damian Lillard?
Damian Lillard is 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) tall — slightly shorter than the typical NBA guard but compensated with elite skill and toughness.
4. Did Lillard’s Achilles injury end his career?
No — an Achilles tear is serious but not necessarily career-ending. With proper rehab, many athletes return to high levels of play. Lillard’s goal remains to return to the NBA once fully healthy.
5. What team does Damian Lillard play for now?
As of 2025-26, Lillard is under contract with the Portland Trail Blazers, the franchise where he spent the majority of his career and returned after being waived by the Milwaukee Bucks.
Final Thoughts
Damian Lillard’s injury saga has been one of the most talked-about developments in the NBA landscape. Between his deep historical impact and ongoing rehabilitation, fans are eager for his return but also understand the importance of patience. A full recovery — particularly from an Achilles tear — takes time, but if anyone can comeback with determination and resilience, it’s Dame.
Whether he returns to elite form with the Trail Blazers or explores new chapters, Lillard’s legacy as one of the most clutch and accomplished players of his generation remains secure.
Leave a Reply