Doc Rivers Reveals Lillard's Praise for Deni Avdija's Leadership
Translated & summarized from Mako by baba
Coach Doc Rivers disclosed that NBA star Damian Lillard told him that Israeli player Deni Avdija was given leadership of the Portland Trail Blazers. Lillard and Ja Morant reportedly informed Avdija that the team was his during the 2026-27 season. Rivers shared these conversations from interviews he had with Lillard.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Doc Rivers revealed Damian Lillard told him Deni Avdija was given the Portland Trail Blazers team.
- Lillard and Ja Morant reportedly told Avdija "This is your game" during the 2026-27 season.
- Rivers discussed Lillard's comments about Avdija in an interview on Bill Simmons' podcast.
- Rivers previously coached Lillard with the Milwaukee Bucks.
- Deni Avdija is an Israeli basketball player playing in the NBA.
Former coach Doc Rivers revealed details of conversations he had with NBA star Damian Lillard regarding Israeli player Deni Avdija. Rivers, who coached Lillard with the Milwaukee Bucks, shared in an interview on Bill Simmons' podcast that Lillard expressed his happiness to be in Portland and credited Avdija with taking the reins of the team. Rivers stated that Lillard told him, "Brother, we made it very clear and very early who the team belongs to." According to Rivers, Lillard and Ja Morant jointly decided to hand over the team to Avdija, telling him, "This is your game and we'll figure out what to do around you."
This exchange reportedly occurred during the 2026-27 NBA season, when Lillard allegedly gave Avdija the keys to the team. Rivers mentioned having spoken with Lillard three or four times about the situation. Avdija, a prominent Israeli basketball player, continues to be a significant topic of discussion in the United States.
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