In an interview with Austin Rivers on Eye for the Game, Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard revealed his deep admiration for Gilbert Arenas, one of the most electrifying players of the 2000s. Lillard, a six-time NBA All-Star and one of his generation’s most feared clutch players, didn’t hesitate to talk about his basketball influences.
“When I was in high school, Gilbert Arenas was my favorite player, bro,” Lillard said. “I used to play in his shoes — I loved Gilbert Arenas.”
The words speak volumes, especially from a player who has established a legendary career through hard work, resilience, and relentless shot-making.
Gilbert Arenas’ Influence on a Young Damian Lillard
Before Damian Lillard became famous as ‘Dame Time,’ a high school student in Oakland watched a rising star named Gilbert Arenas causing a stir in the league with his offensive prowess and fearlessness.
Arenas, famously known as ‘Agent Zero,’ was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 2001 before making his name with the Washington Wizards. His career was characterized by his fearless scorer, flashy personality, and clutch performances, making him one of the most entertaining players of his time. Lillard recalled a pivotal moment that made Arenas his favorite player:
“When I was in high school, Gilbert Arenas was my favorite player, bro,” Lillard said. “I used to play in his shoes — I loved Gilbert Arenas.”
The words speak volumes, particularly for a player who has built a legendary reputation through hard work, resilience, and relentless shot-making.
Gilbert Arenas’ Influence on a Young Damian Lillard
Before Damian Lillard became ‘Dame Time,’ a young high school student in Oakland was observing a rising star called Gilbert Arenas, who was making waves with his unguardable offensive game and fearlessness; Arenas, famously known as ‘Agent Zero,’ was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 2001 before making his name with the Washington Wizards. His career was marked by his fearless scorer, flashy personality, and winning performances, all of which made him one of the most entertaining players of his time. Lillard recalled a pivotal moment that made Arenas his favorite player:
“I remember he got drafted by the Warriors. I was actually at one of the games — I don’t even know if you could find the clips — but he wasn’t getting any burn at first. They played the Pacers that night, and he finally got in… and he was killing.”
From that moment onward, a young Lillard became enthralled. Arenas was a mirror of his aspirations: athletic, skilled, strong, crafty, and confident.
“Out of All the Guards, I’m the Most Like Gilbert Arenas”
Lillard’s interview was particularly striking when he compared himself to the former Wizards star:
“From that point on, I was like, ‘Yo, he athletic, he can shoot, he crafty, he strong.’ Out of all the guards, I feel like I’m the most like Gilbert Arenas.”
This comparison goes beyond mere admiration. The connection is based on a shared mentality and playing style. Lillard and Arenas are high-volume scorers with a wide shooting range, explosive first steps, and a fondness for big moments. Their edge – a chip on their shoulder – drives them to perform beyond expectations, often in the face of doubt. The paths they take in their careers also have similarities. Neither was a top selection in the draft. Lillard was born in Weber State, a mid-major school, and Arenas attended Arizona, but Arenas was selected second in the NBA Draft due to concerns about his ‘tweener’ status. Still, both would go on to defy the odds and etch their names into NBA history.
Gilbert Arenas’ Legacy: An Underrated Trailblazer
Gilbert Arenas’ contribution to basketball is often overlooked. In the mid-2000s, he was one of the NBA’s most dynamic guards, recording an average of more than 25 points per game for three straight seasons. He was recognized as a three-time All-Star, made two All-NBA Teams, and had a propensity for making crucial plays, including buzzer-beater game-winners that have become YouTube classics. He brought charisma and personality to the league in a way few others could. Arenas’ success at the box office was due to his Agent Zero nickname, unfiltered honesty with the media, and unforgettable on-court antics. Their influence is still evident today, especially in the game of players like Damian Lillard, who embrace boldness, thrive in isolation, and possess a supreme level of self-confidence.
The Signature Shoe Connection: A Nod to Culture and Swagger
Lillard even mentioned Arenas’ signature sneakers:
“He was cold-blooded. And that signature shoe was tough too.”
The importance of that detail cannot be overstated. Signature shoes are more than footwear—they symbolize status, influence, and style. Lillard, who has his own Adidas signature line, was aware of how Arenas impacted basketball culture beyond the statistics sheet. In the mid-2000s, not only NBA players but also high schoolers and streetballers wore Gilbert Arenas’ signature shoes with Adidas. Lillard, one of those kids, proudly laced them up, carrying that influence into his career.
A Bridge Between Generations of Elite Guards
Lillard’s comments help bridge the divide between eras. His admiration for Arenas is a welcome break in an age where past stars are often pitted against present ones. It’s a reminder that greatness inspires greatness and that the lineage of elite guards continues from players like Arenas to Lillard and beyond. This demonstrates that the NBA’s legacy is not only defined by championships or longevity but also by inspiration and impact. Although his career was cut short because of injuries and off-court issues, Gilbert Arenas still holds a legendary status in the eyes of one of today’s top players.
Damian Lillard: Carrying the Torch with Respect and Fire
Lillard is now on the Milwaukee Bucks and is proving that he belongs in the same conversation as the best guards in NBA history. Fans have adored him across the league for his deep three-pointers, fearless leadership, and clutch heroics. Despite all the accolades, there is a story about a young Oakland boy who once witnessed Gilbert Arenas lighting up an NBA court and decided to follow in his footsteps.
“Out of all the guards, I feel like I’m the most like Gilbert Arenas.” It’s more than a comparison — it’s a tribute to a player who helped shape the mindset and style of one of the NBA’s current superstars.
