Family has always been Damian Lillard’s anchor. Through All-Star seasons, clutch shots, and even his emotional return to Portland. Especially when big moments happened, his grandfather Albert Johnson was often there, beaming with quiet pride. That bond shaped Lillard’s character as much as his legendary work ethic. Now, as the NBA star faces a year-long rehab for a torn Achilles, family takes center stage again.

The timing feels especially poignant. Just weeks after signing a heartfelt “storybook reunion” deal to finish his career in Portland and taking on a mentor role at his alma mater Weber State, Lillard confronts a profound personal loss.

On Instagram, he posted a simple but shattering tribute with photos of memories with his beloved grandfather: “The biggest L we ever took man. We

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