Some critics argue that the NBA Bubble, which was created due to the COVID-19 pandemic, made it easy for players, but Damian Lillard, the All-Star guard, sees it differently. In fact, he believes that it was more difficult than normal times for multiple reasons. The 2020 season was finished in a bubble at Disney World, with LeBron James and the LA Lakers going on to win the title, which many have discredited due to the circumstances. This championship has been labeled a “Mickey Mouse trophy” by most critics.
During a recent radio appearance, Damian Lillard expressed his thoughts on why playing in the bubble was harder than what most people think. He feels that the competition was better because players were fresh from not having to do the constant traveling they normally did. This meant that they were able to perform at their best during each game, making it more challenging for everyone involved.
Beyond the lack of travel, there were other factors that contributed to the difficulty of playing in the bubble. Players faced unfamiliar environments, isolation from friends and family, and the need to adapt quickly to new surroundings. These challenges added to the already intense pressure of playing in the NBA, making the bubble experience one that was far from easy.
Despite the challenges, the bubble format did provide some unique advantages, such as allowing players to focus solely on basketball without distractions from the outside world. This may have contributed to the high level of play witnessed during the 2020 season, demonstrating the resilience and determination of both players and teams to succeed in a challenging environment.
In conclusion, Damian Lillard’s perspective on the NBA Bubble highlights the complexity of the situation and the various factors that made it both difficult and unique. While some may view the 2020 championship as less valid due to the unusual circumstances, it is also important to recognize the resilience and adaptability of players like Lillard who rose to the challenge in an unprecedented and difficult setting.
