Dame Lillard Talks Shooting, NBA Players as Boxers, and Adjusting to Milwaukee | Interview

TLDRIn this interview, NBA star Damian Lillard discusses his shooting range, the evolution of the three-point shot in the NBA, the skills of players like Caitlyn Clark and Victor Wembanyama, and his thoughts on Jake Paul's boxing career. He also shares his training techniques for shooting off-balance shots and his admiration for Nikola Jokic's all-around game. Additionally, Lillard reflects on his adjustment to the Milwaukee Bucks and his mindset for the season.

Key insights

💥Dame Lillard believes that Caitlyn Clark's shooting range is impressive, especially shooting off the bounce in traffic and during big moments.

🥊Lillard discusses the growing trend of NBA players, like Jake Paul, pursuing professional boxing careers and the importance of taking the sport seriously.

🏀Lillard shares his training technique, called Foundation shooting, which helps him improve his off-balance and game-like shooting skills.

🔥He explains that the three-point shot has changed the game, making it more entertaining and high-scoring, but acknowledges that it has also led to faster-paced and more three-pointer-focused gameplay.

🏆Lillard praises the skills and potential of Victor Wembanyama, highlighting his unique combination of size, agility, and basketball IQ.

Q&A

How does Dame Lillard train to shoot difficult shots?

Lillard follows a training method called Foundation shooting, which helps him develop his shooting skills from mid-range to the three-point line, progressively adding difficulty and different shooting positions.

What does Lillard think about the three-point shot in the NBA?

Lillard believes that the three-point shot is good for the NBA as it stretches the defense, opens up driving lanes, and creates a more entertaining and high-scoring game. However, he also acknowledges that it has led to a faster-paced and more three-point-focused style of play.

Who does Dame Lillard think would excel as a boxer among NBA players?

Lillard mentions that Draymond Green could be a good boxer due to his mental toughness, but suggests that a wiry and unexpected player might be the best representative of an NBA player in the boxing ring.

What are Lillard's thoughts on Jake Paul's boxing career?

Lillard acknowledges that Jake Paul has taken boxing seriously, gaining experience and fighting in big events. He believes that Paul has earned the right to be mentioned with true fighters, given his dedication and training.

How has Lillard adjusted to playing for the Milwaukee Bucks?

Lillard initially found it challenging to adjust to living away from his family and settling into a new team. However, he has learned to be more invested in the team's journey and goals, which has helped him find his place in the team.

Timestamped Summary

00:10Lillard discusses Caitlyn Clark's impressive shooting range, especially in difficult situations.

01:30He talks about NBA players like Jake Paul taking boxing seriously and pursuing professional boxing careers.

03:30Lillard explains his training technique, Foundation shooting, which helps him improve his off-balance and game-like shooting skills.

05:40He shares his thoughts on the impact of the three-point shot in the NBA, noting that it has made the game more entertaining and high-scoring.

07:40Lillard praises the skills and potential of Victor Wembanyama, highlighting his unique combination of size, agility, and basketball IQ.

09:50He discusses potential NBA players who could excel as boxers, mentioning Draymond Green's mental toughness.

11:40Lillard reflects on his adjustment to playing for the Milwaukee Bucks, acknowledging the initial challenges but emphasizing the importance of being invested in the team's journey.

12:50The interview concludes with a special appearance by Doc Rivers, the head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers, who praises Lillard's importance to the team.