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"That prize in the end could change their family's lives"- Damian Lillard is determined to win the In-Season Tournament

Dame has noble intentions.

Matthew Dugandzic

© Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
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Damian Lillard admitted that the whopping cash prize at stake makes him extra motivated to win the inaugural In-Season NBA Tournament.

“The prize in the end is what everybody’s wanting to get to. I think that puts a little bit higher stakes on the games, and it gives us something to get up for,” said Lillard.

While he is honest enough to admit that he is after the cash prize, Lillard doesn't want it for himself but for some of his Milwaukee Bucks teammates and coaches.

Caring for his teammates

Lillard said the In-Season Tournament gives him an opportunity to make an impact on the lives of his teammates.

“I think it’s a situation where it’s a tournament, you want to win that first of all, but for us, in our position, guys like myself, Giannis (Antetokounmpo), Khris (Middleton), Brook (Lopez) as well, we’ve made a lot of money, but I think as a leader and somebody who cares about your teammates especially your younger teammates, you got guys on two-way contracts, guys who are trying to earn their stay and that prize in the end could change their family’s lives,” said Lillard.

Lillard pointed out that money should not be the ultimate motivation, but when the opportunity to get something presents itself, someone must grab that chance, especially if it is for a noble cause.

“You don’t want to make everything about money, but that’s something we can do for people around us. Our coaches, they get a percentage of the same thing. Like I said, it gives you something to get up for and be excited about, even if it’s not for you individually,” Lillard said.

A worthy battle

The Bucks pocketed their first In-Season Tournament win at the expense of the New York Knicks, 110-105. Lillard starred in that win by firing in 30 points, including crucial baskets in the clutch.

Milwaukee will shoot for their second straight In-Season Tournament victory when they take on the Charlotte Hornets Friday night. A win will boost Milwaukee’s chances of advancing to the next round, bringing Lillard’s noble aspirations closer to realization.

“It’s something that you could do for the next person, and I think that’s worth for us battling it out,” Dame said. 

GAME DAY PREVIEW AND INJURY REPORT: The Milwaukee Bucks face Charlotte Hornets in an In-Season Tournament duel

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Matthew Dugandzic
MATTHEW DUGANDZIC

Matthew finished his bachelor's degree in Economics (Management) at the University of Split and got his master's degree in the same field at the University of Zadar. Whether it is playing the game as an undersized 6'3'' power forward or simply watching it, Matthew can't get enough of it. After all, he has been an avid NBA fan since the 2000s. But don't get him wrong, as Matthew still loves the old-school NBA and is a true student of the game. From on-court moments to off-court stuff, whether it's about the stars of modern-day basketball or legends of the game, Matthew covers every category of the NBA world and basketball in general, as long as it makes for an engaging and exciting story.