While Philadelphia 76ers fans were showering Damian Lillard with “We want Lillard” chants during Monday's game, the cameras of the game's broadcast focused on Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups who looked like he was smirking at what the Sixers faithful are doing.
"We want Lillard" chants in Philly 👀 pic.twitter.com/23ZQujuGaJ
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) November 1, 2021
Naturally after the contest, Billups was asked about the chant and his thoughts on what is easily one of the most shameless recruitment this season. Interestingly, the Blazers coach didn't mind it at all. Besides, he knows what Sixers fans are feeling.
Who wouldn't want Lillard on their team anyway?
Article Continues Below“I wasn’t surprised at all. When they were saying we want Lillard I was saying we do too. I understand it and I get it. Philly got a great fan base. They hold no punches, man. I’ve always appreciated that about this city,” Billups said of the chant, per Aaron Bracy of Associated Press.
For what it's worth, aside from Chauncey Billups, Damian Lillard himself also showed his appreciation for the Sixers after they showered him with love (which can also be just the apparent hate of the fans on Ben Simmons). But hey, Philly is called the City of Brotherly Love for a reason (right?).
“City of Brotherly Love, they showed a brother some love. I know what it is and what it’s about. I appreciate the love, I appreciate the respect they showed, the desire or whatever,” Lillard shared, per ESPN.
Despite the recruitment, though, Lillard reaffirmed his commitment to the Blazers. So unfortunately for the Sixers, they can't have what they want this time.