On the second day of the NBA free agency period, the Milwaukee Bucks surprised fans and analysts by announcing the sudden departure of their star point guard, Damian Lillard. This surprising move on July 1, 2025, has left Lillard, 34, as a free agent for the first time in his career, sparking intense speculation about his next destination—possible suitors include the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, or Golden State Warriors in San Francisco. This major development has raised concerns about how Lillard’s exit will reshape team dynamics across the league.
The announcement came shortly after a January 6, 2024, game in Houston, Texas, where Lillard was seen smiling on the court before facing the Houston Rockets at the Toyota Center, as captured by Troy Taormina of USA Today Sports.
Release of the Affordable Dame X Signature Shoe
In the midst of the buzz surrounding his NBA status, Lillard and Adidas Basketball unveiled the new Dame X sneaker on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone as the tenth model in his signature shoe line. The launch was initially overshadowed by his departure from Milwaukee, but it stands as a testament to Lillard’s enduring influence both on and off the court. The release coincided with the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend, where fans got an early glimpse of this highly anticipated addition to his footwear collection.
The Dame X promises to be widely accessible, with a strategic retail price set to draw in a broad base of fans. Lillard shared his intent behind this pricing on his social media platform X, stating:
“Getting to 10 signature models means a lot, but I wanted to use this 10th shoe to make a real statement and bring the price down under $100. I’ve had my secondary Dame Certified line priced under $100 for a few years now, but I wanted to go all in on it for my primary shoe…” — Damian Lillard, NBA Star
Design Features and Pricing Strategy of the Dame X
The Dame X will retail at approximately $95 for adult sizes, making it one of the more affordable options in the top-tier basketball shoe market. This pricing decision reflects Lillard’s desire to ensure his shoes remain accessible to a wide audience, including younger basketball fans and sneaker collectors. For children, Adidas has introduced a specially designed colorway available at a price point of around $70.
The model showcases several striking color options, including Light, Brookfield, Dolla Red, and Zero Metallic, each representing different aspects of Lillard’s personal brand and career. This variety is designed to appeal to diverse style preferences among players and enthusiasts alike.
Speculation on Lillard’s Next Career Chapter
With the Bucks officially moving on from their former superstar, the NBA landscape is rife with uncertainties and possibilities. Observers and supporters alike are left to ponder whether Milwaukee has made a misstep or if this marks a fresh start for Lillard’s career. Speculation about his next team remains heated, with strong interest reportedly coming from the Lakers, Celtics, or Warriors, which could significantly influence the power balance within the league.
Regardless of his next destination, Lillard’s new signature shoe release ensures he maintains a strong presence both on the hardwood and within sneaker culture. The Dame X represents not only a milestone in his athletic career but also a symbol of his ambitions beyond basketball.
This story is ongoing as fans and analysts await further announcements about Lillard’s future, while the sneaker community celebrates the availability of the Dame X.