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  • January 21, 2025
Doc Rivers gave a simple, five-word description of Damian Lillard’s NBA Cup takeover

Doc Rivers gave a simple, five-word description of Damian Lillard’s NBA Cup takeover

While Giannis Antetokounmpo was his usual dominant self, Damian Lillard was the biggest star of this year’s first NBA Cup elimination game on Tuesday night. He scored 29 points, along with the Greek Freak’s 37, to lead the Milwaukee Bucks past the Orlando Magic in the quarterfinals of the season tournament. It wasn’t a sure thing, despite the Magic missing both Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner; Orlando fought fiercely until the final seconds of Milwaukee’s 114-109 victory.

Lillard, like his reputation, shined when his team needed him most. The superstar point guard scored 11 of the Bucks’ final 13 points, providing a taste of early-season Dame Time and bringing fans to their feet at Fiserv Forum. His biggest bucket came with just over 30 seconds left, a layup through the teeth of the Magic defense to give the Bucks a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.

Asked about his stunning takeover in the fourth quarter after the game, head coach Doc Rivers offered a simple explanation: “That’s just Dame being Dame.”

Lillard has certainly had his issues in Milwaukee, but his pivotal performances have always been excellent, stemming from his many years in Portland. It’s no surprise that he showed up in the biggest moment of Tuesday’s quasi-playoff game.

Dame Time continues in Las Vegas as the Bucks take on the winner of the Atlanta Hawks-New York Knicks grudge match for a spot in the NBA Cup Finals.