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Bucks Star Damian Lillard's Decision on Future Revealed

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Apr 30, 2025 7:00 AM ET

On Tuesday, the Milwaukee Bucks almost extended their first-round series against the Indiana Pacers. However, the costly turnovers late in the game resulted in a 119-118 overtime loss in Game 5. Before their bout, Bucks head coach talked about Damian Lillard's plans.

Lillard played three games in the 2025 NBA playoffs before he suffered a devastating left Achilles tendon tear. He sustained the injury in the first quarter of Game 3 as he fell to save the ball. The veteran guard couldn't put any weight on his left foot and needed help from his coaches to walk to the locker room.

Just in: Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard has been diagnosed with a torn left Achilles tendon, sources tell ESPN. MRI today revealed the severity. A devastating end to his season. pic.twitter.com/ysZ0nw8gxW
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 28, 2025

The season-ending injury was tough for Lillard, as he had just returned to action.

The 34-year-old guard came off a recent health scare before he played in the postseason. During the middle of the 2024-25 NBA season, he was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right calf. This caused him to miss significant time off the court.

Before the start of the game, head coach Doc Rivers revealed what Lillard said to him after his injury.

"He said two things, which I love," Rivers said. "The first one, he just said, 'I can't believe I'm here.' Then the second one is 'I'm not going out this way.' I can guarantee you he won't, and that's what I meant about his resolve."

Lillard's comments show that he's still determined to return to action. Recovering from an Achilles tendon tear has never been an easy task. However, the nine-time All-Star is determined to be healthy and back on the floor for the Bucks.

The veteran star finished his second season in Milwaukee and was limited to 58 games due to the blood clots. However, he still averaged 24.9 points, 4.7 rebounds and 7.1 assists.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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