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In NBA, we have many times witnessed basketball stars who have chosen different careers alongside the game. Many have proven their skills extend beyond the hardwood simultaneously running other successful ventures. One prime example is Shaquille O’Neal, whose rap album “Shaq Diesel” achieved commercial success in the ’90s. Another prominent figure is Allen Iverson, who has collaborated with hip-hop artists like Jadakiss and Nas. Kobe released a single titled “K.O.B.E.” featuring Tyra Banks back in 2000. Kevin Durant goes by his rap name “Velvet Hoop”.?

Blazers star guard Damian Lillard is soon going to be traded after a long career in the team. While there have been a lot of troubles and rumors traveling around the league. His musical moniker has been in talks recently by an ex-teammate and friend of LeBron James. Amidst troubles, he has managed to captivate fans with his rap persona as Dame D.O.L.L.A..

Iman Shumpert and Matt Barnes sit on a podcast and talk about their personal “NBA rapper Mount Rushmore” list.?

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Troubles and rumors in NBA career

In recent weeks, his future in the NBA has been the subject of intense speculation. After years of loyalty to the Portland Trail Blazers, Lillard made it clear he was open to exploring other options. His favorite destination is joining Jimmy in the Heat.?

USA Today via Reuters

However, according to insider reports, the NBA issued a memo warning Lillard about potential disciplinary action if his camp continued to make statements suggesting that he would only play for the Miami Heat. The situation has undoubtedly added fuel to the fire of trade rumors surrounding the star point guard.?

While his NBA game is yet to be seen. His success in the music industry cannot be overlooked.?

Damian Lillard a.k.a ?Dame Dolla?

In a recent podcast “ALL THE SMOKE,” hosted by Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson, Shumpert revealed his personal “NBA rapper Mount Rushmore.” Shumpert included himself along with Damian Lillard, Stack Jack (Stephen Jackson), and Lou Williams.?

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Shumpert praised Dame?s lyrical ability to captivate fans. He also emphasized the importance of recognizing him as a legitimate rapper, not just an NBA player trying his hand at music.?

According to him, those who weren’t familiar with Lillard as a rapper were left astounded when they heard him spit bars. ?People that knew who he was, they gonna be like man NBA just went crazy; but that was real-life people just saying like who is that rapper? That rapper dude is like bro. You don?t know Damian Lillard, that?s not Dame Dolla, that?s Damian Lillard. Put 50 in your a**. That?s him!?

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READ MORE: Amidst Trade Drama That Might Take Damian Lillard to Miami, New Music Video From Paris Distracts Fans

Dame has released albums like The Letter O (2016), Confirmed (2017), and Big D.O.L.L.A. (2019). Apart from this, he has released many singles. At 33, it feels like he’s just starting. In his NBA career, he is rooting for a championship. On the other hand, there are exciting opportunities for the multi-talented Dame Dolla.