Damian Lillard, who was recently acknowledged as the champion of the inaugural 2024 Emirates NBA Cup with the Milwaukee Bucks, has already made a decision about how to spend some of his prize money, and it doesn’t involve himself. After the Bucks beat the Oklahoma City Thunder by 97-81 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Lillard shared his thoughtful plan to distribute his $514,971 bonus to the support staff of Milwaukee.

A Champion’s Gratitude

Before the game, Lillard emphasized the significance of acknowledging the team members behind the scenes who contribute to the success of players every day.

“I’ve been doing this a long time, so when I get it, I’m not going to just blow it or go crazy,” Lillard explained. “I’ll probably go to the support staff, you know, our training staff, the people that come in every day, all day when we get to go home. I’m going to try to do something to support them.”

While Lillard jokingly admitted he wouldn’t donate the entire bonus, his gesture highlights his awareness and appreciation for those who often work without the spotlight. “Not the whole 500,” he laughed. “Just a little portion of it.”

A Meaningful Gesture

The $514,971 payout could be less than what star players like Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo earn from their contracts and endorsements. For younger Bucks players or those on smaller contracts, the money can be life-altering.

Lillard’s decision to give away a portion of his bonus shows his leadership and gratitude. The training of staff, equipment managers, and other support personnel plays a vital role in a team’s success, but they do not often receive public recognition or significant financial rewards.

Leading by Example

Lillard’s reputation as one of NBA’s most humble and selfless superstars is enhanced by this move. Lillard’s character is exemplified by his dedication to giving back to his team, even though many players use bonuses to indulge or celebrate. His actions demonstrate his dedication to assisting players in performing at their best. Lillard’s sharing of his prize is not only a way to reward his support staff but also sets an example of generosity and leadership for the league.

Conclusion

Damian Lillard’s ability to be thoughtful off the court is a reflection of his brilliance on it. Sharing his NBA Cup bonus with the Milwaukee Bucks’ support staff is a way for him to turn a celebratory moment into a meaningful one. Lillard is honoring his new team while also demonstrating that being a champion is not just about winning games—it’s also about lifting others along the way.