Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum’s friendship blossomed behind mutual love for their mothers, whom each honored on Instagram for Mother’s Day.
Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum aren’t your usual backcourt pairing. Off the court, the two have been and continue to be close friends.
This bond started during Lillard’s rookie year in the league and McCollum’s final college season. They texted and spoke up until the draft, when the Blazers surprised Dame by drafting his new pal.
Now teammates, the backcourt built its chemistry through workouts and fun outings to Oaks Park and Portland bowling alleys.
In an interview with NBC Sports Northwest in 2015, CJ McCollum explained how the friendship developed. He said, “I just felt like we had a lot in common. Small school, broken foot, close with mom. He had the same family and core values, and that is very important to me.”
Like childhood friendships, Dame and CJ’s moms grew closer as their sons did. To NBC Sports Northwest, Lillard said of his and McCollum’s moms, “They are probably hanging out right now, as we speak.”
Five seasons later and the backcourt pairing continues to dominate the league. Even with calls for a split, Dame and CJ remain confident in the success of their duo.
Behind this success, like with so many other NBA players, is their moms. So, for Mother’s Day, both Lillard and McCollum honored their moms (or women in their life) with touching Instagram posts.
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Social media posts like these help bridge the gap between athletes and fans.
Additionally, with the NBA season over for Portland, it’s great to see the players continue to be role models off the court. Dame and CJ’s family values and perennial maturity inspires fans across the state to make respectable decisions in their shadow.