Damian Lillard scores career

Portland Trail Blazers superstar Damian Lillard put on a historic performance on April 20, 2021, scoring a career-high 71 points in a 123-114 loss to the Dallas Mavericks. Lillard's performance was a reminder of why he is considered one of the best players in the NBA, and his 13 made 3-pointers tied an NBA record for most 3-pointers in a game.

Lillard's performance was not only impressive in terms of the number of points he scored, but also in how efficiently he did it. He shot 23-of-43 from the field, including 13-of-20 from beyond the arc, and was perfect from the free throw line, going 12-of-12. Lillard also recorded six rebounds, four assists, and a steal in the game.

• The game started off as a close affair, with both teams exchanging baskets and staying within a few points of each other. However, as the game went on, Lillard started to heat up, hitting shot after shot from beyond the arc. He scored 22 points in the first quarter alone, and by halftime, he had already scored 37 points.
• Despite Lillard's heroics, the Trail Blazers found themselves trailing the Mavericks by double digits in the second half. Lillard continued to fight, though, scoring 21 points in the third quarter alone to keep his team in the game. He hit four 3-pointers in the quarter, including a step-back triple that had the entire arena on their feet.
• In the fourth quarter, Lillard continued to pour it on, hitting three more 3-pointers and scoring 13 points to bring his total to 71 for the game. He became just the sixth player in NBA history to score 70 or more points in a game, joining a prestigious list that includes Wilt Chamberlain, Kobe Bryant, David Robinson, Elgin Baylor, and Devin Booker.
• Despite Lillard's remarkable performance, the Trail Blazers were unable to come away with the victory. The Mavericks, led by Luka Doncic's 37 points, were able to hold off Portland's late comeback attempt and secure the win.

After the game, Lillard spoke about his historic performance and what it meant to him. "It was a special night," he said. "I've had some big scoring games before, but this one was different. I was in a zone, and my teammates did a great job of finding me and setting me up for shots. It's a great feeling to be able to contribute like this, but it's bittersweet because we didn't get the win."

Lillard's performance was not only impressive in the moment, but it also had historical significance. His 13 made 3-pointers tied the record set by Kobe Bryant and matched by Stephen Curry for the most 3-pointers made in a game. It was a fitting accomplishment for Lillard, who is widely considered one of the best long-range shooters in the NBA.

Overall, Damian Lillard's performance on April 20, 2021, was one for the ages. His 71 points and 13 made 3-pointers will go down as one of the greatest single-game performances in NBA history. Lillard's ability to score from anywhere on the court and his tenacity on the offensive end of the floor make him one of the most exciting players to watch in the NBA today. While the Trail Blazers may not have won the game, Lillard's performance was a reminder of just how talented he is and what he is capable of when he gets in the zone.

"It was a special night," he said. "I've had some big scoring games before, but this one was different. I was in a zone, and my teammates did a great job of finding me and setting me up for shots. It's a great feeling to be able to contribute like this, but it's bittersweet because we didn't get the win."