Rookie Darius Acuff Jr. Pays Tribute to Damian Lillard Ahead of First NBA Matchup
Sacramento Kings rookie Darius Acuff Jr. is showing some serious props to Damian Lillard before they face off for the first time. Acuff, who was picked seventh in the draft, told reporters he sees a lot of similarities between his own game and Lillard’s. ‘I always watched him growing up,’ Acuff said. ‘You gotta respect guys like that, especially when you do what they do and they show it on the court. He’s definitely one of my favorites.’ Acuff had an explosive single season at Arkansas, averaging 23.5 points and 6.4 assists with a 60.4 percent true shooting rate. Lillard, on the other hand, rose from an unheralded recruit at Weber State to become an All-NBA player and one of the league’s top volume scorers. After being traded to the Bucks and then re-signing with the Trail Blazers following an Achilles injury, Lillard made a strong comeback with 25 points on 88 percent true shooting in his debut. Acuff, meanwhile, had a rough start with 12 points on 24 shots in his first game. Lillard spoke about his return, saying he’s felt good for months and is ready to lead the team. ‘It was a great way to start this chapter for our team,’ he added.
