Damian Lillard has always been known as a sharpshooter, but his hops and aggression can catch you off-guard. Dame’s ups definitely surprised the Denver Nuggets in a January game in 2014.
The play developed like many others in the season; with teammate Robin Lopez giving Damian a screen. Damian went right after the pick but quickly split left, freezing former teammate J.J. Hickson. Lillard then slithered into the lane and leapt from the semicircle past the free throw line. The smaller Lillard then threw down a right-handed spike jam, aerially sneaking past Nuggets big man Anthony Randolph. Dame’s momentum had him stomping after the dunk, stomping to flex his arms for the pumped-up Portland crowd.
The sneakers Lillard laced up for this slam dunk was the D Rose 4. This shoe looked to provide support for guards with SpringFrame, a midfoot piece that is both rigid and low to the ground. This combined with the CrazyQuick sole provides better court-feel to help guards get a quick first step.
Damian rocked the black and grey colorway, which can be found at GOAT.
You can find other colorways of the adidas D Rose 4 at StockX.
Cover image via Black Sports Online
