Damian Lillard was one of the four players cut from the final USA Basketball roster, and though his being left off of the team that will compete in the FIBA World Cup was expected all along, it wasn’t due to a lack of talent or poor play on Lillard’s part.
He didn’t really have much of a shot, considering just how heavy Team USA is at the guard position. With Kyrie Irving, Derrick Rose and Stephen Curry in place, Lillard only got a real chance to play in one of the squad’s three exhibition contests — the 43-point win over the Dominican Republic on Wednesday.
Lillard didn’t play at all on Friday, and someone thought it might be a good idea to taunt him about it on Twitter. It wasn’t.
“@Vin_Lee_: @Dame_Lillard we played the same amount of mins today bro” did we make the same amount of money today too?
— Damian Lillard (@Dame_Lillard) August 23, 2014
This is essentially a perfect response from Lillard. It shows he isn’t afraid to interact with people on social media, and it showcases his personality and sense of humor, as well.
Lillard also took to Twitter to say all the right things following his dismissal from this summer’s USA Basketball squad, which showed his professional side in the wake of what surely was a moment of disappointment, even though it might have been somewhat expected.
“@TommyRobinson13: @Dame_Lillard why doesn’t coach K give you much playing time?” Lot of great players on one roster.
— Damian Lillard (@Dame_Lillard) August 23, 2014
Back in my natural habitat! Throw more wood on the fire . Thankful for the opportunity And guys please don’t feel sorry. I’m always Good!
— Damian Lillard (@Dame_Lillard) August 23, 2014