Lillard’s return to Philippines ‘already in the works’

Naveen Ganglani

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Lillard’s return to Philippines ‘already in the works’
Damian Lillard says he wants to return to the Philippines some time this summer, adds his last trip was 'a great experience'

MANILA, Philippines – Portland Trail Blazers All-Star Damian Lillard plans to visit the Philippines once again, and says that his return may take place sooner rather than later.

During a phone interview with members of international media on Wednesday, April 1, Lillard said that he “definitely” wants to visit the Philippines another time, and that plans are “already in the works” for it to happen.

“I’m just trying to figure out if I would have an open window to get back some time this summer,” said Lillard, whose Trail Blazers currently own a 48-25 record and are on pace to win the NBA Northwest Division title.

“If not this summer,” he said, then hopefully next summer.”

Lillard visited the Philippines in 2014 along with other NBA stars like reigning Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard, DeMar DeRozan, and Kyle Lowry, among others, to participate in a charity basketball match – titled ‘The Last Home Stand’ – against the Philippine men’s national basketball team.

However, it was revealed just moments before the game that the NBA players would not be allowed see action seeing as the event organizers failed to attain permission from their respective NBA teams to let them play, with potential fines and suspensions also a possibility.

“I had the chance to go to the Philippines this past summer, with the Last Home Stand, it didn’t turn out to be what they wanted to be; you know some unfortunate things happened. But for me personally, it was a great experience just to see something different,” said Lillard.

“I enjoy moving around the city just seeing the way life is there. I really appreciate it all and how much they know about us professional athletes.”

Lillard also said that the reception they received from Filipinos during their brief stay rivals the adoration NBA crowds in the United States show them.

“We’re aware of how much fans in the United States know about us and you know, how they feel about us but to be able to go to a different country and to get the same reception and for people to be so familiar with us and so passionate about the game of basketball, I was really impressed and it was a great experience for me personally,” said the 24-year-old point guard.

Lillard also talked about how the NBA has become more of a global phenomenon, and how the game continues to gain popularity all over the world.

“I think the development of basketball is growing all around the world… just the fact that the game is evolving and becoming so impactful in other countries like in India, it’s inspiring.” – Rappler.com

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