Kobe Bryant knew Damian Lillard would take NBA by storm with swagger in 2013: Watch

Damian Lillard is currently in  NBA bubble, hoping to lead Portland Trail Blazers to a deep playoffs run. Following his 51-point game against Philadelphia 76ers, Lillard is averaging over 30 points at Orlando bubble. On Wednesday, Lillard tied his career-high of 61 points against Dallas Mavericks. Currently in his eighth NBA season, Lillard started playing with Trail Blazers in 2013, where is won Rookie of Year, and also earned respect of late NBA legend Kobe Bryant.

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Kobe Bryant was sure Damian Lillard would create his mark in NBA during rookie year in 2013

Bryant and Lillard faced each or in April 2013, where Bryant finished game with 47 points and 8 rebounds, while Lillard posted 39 points and 9 assists. During his post-game interview, Bryant was clearly impressed by Lillard's performance and praised him during interview. According to Bryant, Lillard was "serious" and "t afraid of anything". "He’s got whole pack: he’s got three-ball, he’s got mid-range, get on to rim obviously. And we just had to go get him," Bryant explained. 

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Lillard was also recently compared to Kobe Bryant by retired NBA player Raja Bell, who compared two NBA icons while of  ‘ Ringer NBA Show’. "y both have that killer’ mentality. I feel like Dame is closest thing to Kobe that re is in game," Bell explained. 

Kobe Bryant motivated Damian Lillard during  2014 All-Star game

Kobe Bryant and Damian Lillard played toger for  Western Conference team during  2014 All-Star game. However, Lillard felt a little disappointed after playing for only eight minutes. Bryant was one who spoke to young rookie, reminding Lillard that he was one who belongs as an All-Star. "You’re right where you’re supposed to be with everyone here. You’re an All-Star. Just keep working young fella," five-time NBA champion told Lillard. Before All-Star game, Bryant had also encourd people to vote for players like Lillard.

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Damian Lillard stats: Lillard 61 points career-high against Dallas Mavericks

Damian Lillard stats, NBA standings

Since n, Lillard has made five more All-Star appearances and has also been selected in All-NBA team four times. While Trail Blazers are yet to win a title, Lillard continues to play for team. He is currently signed on a four-year, $196 million supermax contract extension with team. This season, Lillard is averaging 29.8 points, 4.3 rebounds and 8 assists per game. With his 61-point performance on Tuesday (Wednesday IST), Lillard has earned Trail Blazers eighth spot in NBA playoffs. 

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(Im source: NBA official site, NBA stats official Twitter)