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 love you granddaddy 🙏🏽”

Albert Johnson wasn’t just a fan; he was foundational. When young Damian had no basketball hoop at their Oakland home, Albert nailed milk crates to a telephone pole so he could practice. Later, he taught Damian “about being real men” through actions, not lectures.  In 2016, Lillard famously rearranged his playoff schedule to surprise Albert for his 80th birthday. Later, he told ESPN, “He was the foundation of all of that”.

Beyond the photos and the caption, this moment arrives at a sensitive time in Lillard’s life and career. Currently rehabbing from a torn Achilles, Dame is expected to miss the 2025-26 season, and only recently accepted a role with Weber State that keeps him engaged with the game while he recovers. Hence, the loss of his grandfather comes at a topsy-turvy time when he has multiple other commitments on his plate.

Is Damian Lillard retiring from NBA?

When Lillard’s Weber State title surfaced, questions flew about whether he was walking away from playing. However, fans do not have anything to fret about. Despite accepting the general manager title at Weber State, he also signed a three year deal to return to the Trail Blazers in July 2025.

Weber State described the job as a part time advisory position. It was created to let Lillard mentor players, advise on recruiting and culture, and visit on a schedule that works around his rehab. Lillard himself framed the move as paying back a program that believed in him, saying “The support of our community is vital to the program’s success, and I am committed to playing a greater role in that effort”.

Bottom line, Lillard’s public tribute is a reminder that he’s balancing grief, rehab, and a passion project at his old school. And for now, his focus is clearly on returning to the court once he’s healthy. Fans and the franchise should expect him to use this season to heal and to honor his grandfather’s legacy while he prepares to come back.