Damian Lillard’s career was never about making noise. It grew slowly and quietly. It came from early mornings, late nights, and thousands of shots taken when nobody was watching. Long before people started saying “Dame Time,” he was just a kid from Oakland trying to get better every single day.
He did not become great because of hype. He became great because he stayed patient, stayed disciplined, and stayed calm when pressure was heavy. Game after game, he earned trust by doing the same things right. This biography looks at his age, height, family background, personal life, career, net worth, and the small choices that shaped him into one of basketball’s most respected players.
Quick Profile
- Full Name: Damian Lamonte Ollie Lillard Sr.
- Date of Birth: July 15, 1990
- Age: 35 (as of 2025)
- Birthplace: Oakland, California, USA
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: African-American
- Profession: NBA player, recording artist
- Position: Point Guard
- NBA Draft: 2012 – Round 1, Pick 6 (Portland Trail Blazers)
- Years Active: 2012–present
Early Life and Education
Damian Lillard was born and raised in Oakland, California. His home was not far from neighborhood gyms and open playground courts, the kind of places where kids play until the sun goes down. Basketball was not something he “trained for” at first. It was simply part of daily life.
His mother, Gina Johnson, worked hard to keep the family steady and focused, while his father, Houston Lillard, pushed him to stay disciplined and respectful. Damian grew up alongside his brother, Houston Lillard Jr., and his sister, LaNae Lillard. Being close to his family kept him grounded and played a big part in shaping the calm, steady personality people see in him today.
He went to Oakland High School, where he quietly built a scoring record that still stands. Even after becoming the school’s all-time leading scorer, major college programs did not rush to sign him.
Instead, Weber State University in Utah gave him a chance. Lillard made the most of it. Game by game, he grew into the leader of the team, learning how to carry responsibility, not just the ball. By the time he left Weber State, he was no longer just a scorer. He was a complete guard, ready for the next level.
Professional Career
Damian Lillard was selected sixth overall in the 2012 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers. He won Rookie of the Year in his first season and quickly became the team’s franchise leader.
Over more than a decade in Portland, he built his reputation as one of the league’s most reliable scorers and late-game performers.
Portland Trail Blazers Era
Lillard became the franchise’s all-time leading scorer and its emotional center. His playoff buzzer-beaters and deep three-point shooting defined an era of Blazers basketball.
Milwaukee Bucks Era
In 2023, Lillard was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, marking a new chapter in his career as he joined a championship-focused roster.
Olympic and International Career
Lillard represented Team USA and won an Olympic gold medal, adding international recognition to his résumé.
Playing Style and Court Reputation
Known for his deep shooting range, composure, and late-game execution, Lillard’s playing style has earned him the nickname “Dame Time.”
Defining Career Moments
- Multiple playoff buzzer-beaters
- 71-point scoring performance
- Portland’s all-time leading scorer
- Multiple NBA All-Star and All-NBA selections
- Olympic gold medalist
Net Worth and Endorsements
Damian Lillard’s estimated net worth exceeds $100 million, largely from NBA contracts, endorsement deals, and music revenue. He has had major partnerships with Adidas and other global brands.
Off-Court Ventures and Music Career
Under the name Dame D.O.L.L.A., Lillard has released several hip-hop albums and collaborated with prominent artists, building a credible presence in music.
Personal Life
Lillard is a father and keeps his personal life private. He is known for maintaining a disciplined family-focused lifestyle.
Physical Measurements
- Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
- Weight: 195 lbs (88 kg)
- Build: Athletic
Social Media Presence
- Instagram: @damianlillard
- X (Twitter): @Dame_Lillard
Trivia & Contextual Facts
- “Dame Time” originated organically among fans
- One of the deepest shooters in NBA history
- Built his reputation on loyalty and calm leadership
FAQs
Why is Damian Lillard called Dame Time?
Because of his clutch late-game shooting.
Which team defined his career?
The Portland Trail Blazers.
Is Damian Lillard also a musician?
Yes — under the name Dame D.O.L.L.A.
Has he won Olympic gold?
Yes.
