Damian Lillard recently bid an emotional farewell to the Portland Trail Blazers, the team he called home for 11 seasons. He also shared a heartwarming and grateful message for Blazers’ announcer Mark Mason. This gesture came soon after he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in September. Lillard wished to express his gratitude to Mason for giving him one final callout.
Mason played a significant part in Lillard’s time with the Trail Blazers as he delivered the signature entry lines for the star player. The 33-year-old Lillard took to social media to respond to a clip of Mason announcing him in the studio, demonstrating his appreciation for the announcer’s role in his career. In a short and sweet message, Lillard wrote, “Much love and respect, Mark.”
It’s clear that Lillard has fond memories of his time with the Portland Trail Blazers and the people who made it special. Trading him to the Milwaukee Bucks was a significant change for both the team and Lillard himself, and this heartfelt message displayed how deeply those connections run.
These moments of gratitude and camaraderie remind us of the close-knit relationships that can form between athletes and those who support them, such as team staff like announcers. In recognizing Mason’s contributions, Lillard highlighted the importance of these connections and the impact they can have on a player’s career.
As Damian Lillard moves on to a new chapter with the Milwaukee Bucks, his farewell message to Mark Mason and the Portland Trail Blazers is a potent reminder of how sports can forge lasting bonds. It is a testament to the impact that a team, its fans, and its staff can have on an athlete’s life and career.
