PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – News that Damian Lillard is returning to the Portland Trail Blazers has launched a wave of excitement for fans who were saddened by the previous trade of their team’s star player.

Earlier on Thursday, Shams Charania from ESPN reported that the Portland Trail Blazers legend is signing a three-year, $42 million contract and will be coming back to Portland.

“It’s about Dame Time,” Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden said in a post on social media shortly after the announcement.

Fans at Back to the Basket told KOIN 6 News that they were thrilled to have Lillard back in a Blazers uniform.

“Dame coming home. Welcome back to the city,” one fan said.

“This is a sign to all of Portland. No matter what we go through, just say positive,” another fan said.

After playing in Portland for 11 seasons, Lillard signed with the Bucks in 2023 after requesting a trade. However, he was waived by Milwaukee earlier this month after he tore his Achilles in May.

Lillard himself also shared the news on his social media with a video of his jersey hanging amongst his teammates followed by the words, “Together Again.” This post was coupled with the caption, “RipCityyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!!!”

Lillard’s salary will now be $70M between his Portland and Milwaukee deals. His salary over the next two years will be $141M, ahead of an opt-out in 2027.

Stay with KOIN 6 News as this story develops.