How would you feel if what you once called a forever home suddenly turned stray? That happened when Damian Lillard announced his decision to join the Milwaukee Bucks, leaving the Portland Trail Blazers after 11 seasons. Tonight, he returned for the first time, unaware of where the visiting team even meets. Dame’s status in the building for the first time was as a rival.

He was greeted with rapturous applause. Unsurprisingly so, Lillard had carried the Trail Blazer’s mantle for over a decade. After embracing the love of his former home, it was time to compete.

Portland, who is the 14th seed, was given no chance against a star-studded and ever-dominant Milwaukee Bucks. However, they spoiled the return of their most adored star in the franchise’s history.

Damian Lillard faces the pain of loss

The Trail Blazers weren’t intimidated by the scary-looking Milwaukee Bucks. For them, it was a chance to pull off one of the biggest upsets this season. The Milwaukee Bucks are one of the best teams in the NBA. Tonight, they were fully healthy. All five starters lined up. It was supposed to be a cakewalk and a calm return for Damian Lillard.

Portland wasn’t on board that plan.

The Trail Blazers, who had just stunned the Philadelphia 76ers last game, continued to stay in rhythm. They barely edged out, but they did. They hunted down the Bucks 116-119 in Dame’s return. It came down to Giannis Antetkounmpo‘s free throws at the end. After missing his first, the hunt for a rebound was obvious. Both teams scratched and pawed for the ball. It landed with the Trail Blazers and the game was over.

De’Andre Ayton was ecstatic, yelling, “That’s what we do,” as a dejected Damian Lillard walked by.

Anfernee Simons scored 24 while Ayton had a 20-point double-double. The Greek Freak was supreme on both ends of the floor. Lastly, even Damian Lillard went all-out. He scored 25 points in his return, but the emotions might have been too heavy. Lillard struggled to make shots, only hitting 3 of his thirteen three-pointer attempts. The Trail Blazers, on the other hand, persevered to survive on the two-point lead they had built in the first half.

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This is now the second straight loss for the Bucks since Doc Rivers was appointed head coach. Concerns have to ramp up at this point. Will the very reason Lillard left Portland bite him back here in Milwaukee?

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