Damian Lillard, one of the NBA's most renowned sharpshooters, recently shared insights into his unique shooting prowess on JJ Redick's "The Old Man and The Three" podcast. Known for his ability to sink shots from well beyond the arc, Lillard's shooting stroke has cemented his status as one of the league's most consistent 3-point shooters. His hometown of Oakland plays a significant role in his identity, providing a backdrop for both his personal and professional life.
Lillard has perfected a shooting form that enables him to launch accurate shots from distances exceeding 30 feet. Over the past decade, he has been the NBA's most accurate volume shooter from this range, connecting on an impressive 31.9% of his attempts. His unmatched ability to maintain precision while shooting from such distances sets him apart from his peers, including Stephen Curry, who trails behind Lillard in both attempts and makes from 30-plus feet.
"You've gotta shoot off [of] your fingertips! You shooting a knuckleball!" – Damian Lillard
Lillard's commitment to refining his shooting form is evident in his statistics. He has made a staggering 240 three-pointers from beyond 30 feet over the past ten seasons, far surpassing Curry's 179. This consistency is not just a result of taking more shots but also a testament to his ability to catch defenses off guard with his willingness to shoot from far beyond the arc. His 3-point shot attempts have remained steady for five consecutive seasons, demonstrating his reliability and strategic approach to shooting.
Moreover, Lillard possesses a unique ability to release his shots quickly, with an average release time of just 0.38 seconds over the past year and a half. This rapid release allows him to capitalize on fleeting opportunities, maintaining an edge over defenders who struggle to anticipate such long-range attempts.
"He's the only other person I've ever seen shoot like that. It was so awkward, but he'd do it worse than me; literally just flicking the ball." – Damian Lillard
Lillard's skills have earned him the nickname "Logo Lillard," reflecting his capacity to score from anywhere on the court, including from the logo at midcourt. His reputation for hitting critical shots is well-deserved, with career-defining game-winners against the Houston Rockets and Oklahoma City Thunder underscoring his clutch performance in high-pressure moments.
Beyond his on-court achievements, Lillard's connection to Oakland remains strong. He attributes much of his success to the city's influence and the lessons he learned growing up there. His father, Houston Lillard, played an instrumental role in shaping his shooting technique and instilled in him a love for basketball.
"I really grew up in the real part of Oakland. I'm from the neighborhood, so I caught the bus with these people every day. I was at the park with these people," – Damian Lillard
"I would just roll it off [my fingers]," – Damian Lillard
Lillard's illustrious career includes multiple appearances in the NBA All-Star Game, where he has also claimed All-Star Game MVP honors. Notably, he has participated in the NBA 3-point contest three times consecutively, joining an exclusive club of players like Larry Bird and Craig Hodges who have achieved this feat.
His journey from Oakland to NBA stardom reflects a deep-rooted connection with his hometown and an unwavering dedication to his craft. The lessons imparted by his father continue to resonate in Lillard's game, as does the community that shaped him.
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