:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/63732930/usa_today_12614170.0.jpg)
Trail Blazers star and Adidas frontman Damian Lillard laced up several flashy shoes during the 2018-19 season. In a discussion with ESPN’s Nick DePaula, Lillard opened up about his special tribute to the Blazers’ former owner Paul Allen.
Dame’s “RIP Paul Allen” tribute sneakers kicked off his season.
— Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) May 3, 2019
As their series heads back to Portland, @DamianLillard discusses his memories of the late @TrailBlazers owner and the details on his custom @adidasHoops kicks. pic.twitter.com/lHHzP1Cd9H
According to Lillard, he grew close with Allen after the Blazers were forced to re-tool after LaMarcus Aldridge’s exit from Portland. In an effort to fondly remember that relationship, Adidas and Lillard put together a color scheme that highlighted the mutual love of music that the two shared.
Along with the music-themed design, the lower portion of the shoe featured the message “RIP Paul Allen”.