Dame Dolla’ Is Here To Stay

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Bryant Knox, Oregon Sports News

Damian Lillard has made a name for himself as a multi-talented figure since he arrived on the NBA scene in 2012. He’s a franchise player, a stellar self-promoter, a valued community member and a skilled rapper.

It’s safe to say the 25-year-old is the first Weber State product to hold all of those labels. And speaking of labels…

NBA's Damian Lillard -- Rap Career BOOMIN' ... Major Labels Interested https://t.co/0tR4bhCZMi
— TMZ (@TMZ) May 24, 2016

Lillard, a.k.a Dame Dolla, is apparently a hot commodity in the world of hip-hop free agency. According to TMZ, there are numerous “major labels” interested in signing him this summer.

On top of that, one well-known name in the industry has already stated he’d enjoy a potential collaboration. “He really can rhyme,” Common told TMZ. “I’d work with Damian.”

For those who think Lillard should keep his focus on his game, consider this: There are really only three reasons a professional basketball player should stay away from the hip-hop world.

•   He’s not living up to his potential on the court
•   He’s getting into trouble off the court
•   He’s no good on the mic

As it pertains to Lillard, you only need one phrase when it comes to avoiding these significant hurdles: check, check, check.

Lillard has not only lived up to expectations on the hardwood, he’s exceeded them since Day 1. According to Joe Freeman of The Oregonian, Lillard not only became the first player since LeBron James to record at least 21 points and nine assists in a debut, he also joined Oscar Robertson and Isiah Thomas as the only players to ever post at least 20 points and 10 assists in a first career game.

When it comes to Lillard’s off-the-court behavior, virtually nothing bad has ever come out in the media. In fact, Portland’s franchise player is currently a finalist to take home the NBA’s Community Assist award (he’s also been named a monthly winner in the past).

And if you’re questioning his skills as a lyrical wordsmith, look no further than his #4barfriday movement, his hit single “Bigger Than Us” or some of his NBA-to-Hip Hop competition from the past (Sorry, K.O.B.E.).

Lillard is the real deal on the court, and there’s no reason he can’t be the real deal off it.

He’s already managed to make a name for himself in both industries, and if all goes according to plan, that sentiment will only improve as his career progresses.