Download the all-new Republic app:

Published 16:59 IST, November 25th 2020

CJ McCollum credits special wine for Damian Lillard's impressive NBA bubble performances

In a recent interview, Portland Trail Blazers' CJ McCollum spoke about teammate Damian Lillard, and how wine played a role in his streak at the bubble.

Reported by: Devika Pawar
Follow: Google News Icon
  • share
null | Image: self
Advertisement

Though the Portland Trail Blazers were eliminated from the NBA playoffs round one this season, Damian Lillard was praised for his performance at the NBA bubble. Lillard and the Trail Blazers were on a three-game winning streak at the NBA bubble, where Lillard scored over 40 in all games. In a recent interview, his teammate CJ McCollum has credited wine for their streak. 

Also read | Damian Lillard, Paul George apologise to each other after feud takes personal turn

Advertisement

CJ McCollum credits wine for Damian Lillard's streak at the NBA bubble

As per McCollum, wine could have played a role in Lillard's exceptional performance at the NBA bubble. While talking to Taylor Rooks of GQ, McCollum explained how Lillard was a fan of McCollum Heritage 91 pinot noir blend, which he drank frequently while they were in Orlando. 

"McCollum's backcourt running mate said Heritage 91 was a magic elixir, the good-luck charm behind his historic bubble hot streak," Rooks wrote in her piece. She added that everytime Lillard drank some of the wine, he would go and score 50 points against a team. This is why the McCollum Heritage 91 had become a part of their routine at night. 

Advertisement

McCollum recounted Lillard's words, where the guard asked him to bring nothing but the Heritage, which is what he wants to drink. 

Also read | CJ McCollum and his long-time girlfriend Elise get married in a beautiful fall wedding

Advertisement

Damian Lillard NBA bubble stats

While the Trail Blazers only won one game against the Lakers in the playoffs, Lillard was unstoppable in the games preceding the playoffs. He was named the NBA MVP for the seeding games while averaging 37.6 points, 9.6 assists and 1.4 steals in eight games. This included his 61-point game against the Dallas Mavericks. As of now, Lillard is only the sixth player in NBA history to have three 60-plus-point games. 

Also read | Damian Lillard contract, Net Worth, endorsements, rap albums and NBA career

Advertisement

CJ McCollum podcast

McCollum had recently commented on No.1 Draft pick Anthony Edwards, who had spoken about rapping, and being better than Dame DOLLA. "He better work on that jumper... you can't run in the West," McCollum said while on the podcast, apparently in response Edwards' claims about his teammate. Later, McCollum clarified that he was only stating facts.

Also read | Damian Lillard grooved to 'Blow The Whistle' mid-game after embarrassing LeBron's Lakers

(Image credits: CJ McCollum Instagram)

16:59 IST, November 25th 2020