Lillard scores 25 in long-awaited Trail Blazers return
After nearly 18 months away with an Achilles injury, Damian Lillard scored 25 points in his Trail Blazers return.
Damian Lillard returned to the court for the Portland Trail Blazers after nearly 18 months away. Lillard had been recovering from a serious Achilles injury and made an immediate impact.
The 36-year-old scored 25 points with six three-pointers. Portland beat the Phoenix Suns 124-83 in their season opener on Wednesday.
Lillard had been sidelined since the 2025 postseason while playing for the Milwaukee Bucks. Some had questioned whether he could still perform at an elite level.
His dominant display silenced those doubts. It showed he remains a star player.
The Trail Blazers had a commanding performance. They led by as many as 52 points.
Lillard said the team's ball movement and togetherness made the performance special.
- 25
- Lillard's points
- 6
- Three-pointers made
- Nearly 18 months
- Time away from play
- 124-83 Trail Blazers
- Final score
Why it mattersLillard's comeback after a major injury shows he can still perform at the highest level. This is impressive despite his age and time away from the court.
AustraliaLillard and the Trail Blazers are followed closely by Australian NBA fans; his comeback is a major storyline for the league this season.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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