Today Trail Blazers coach Billups participated in the team's official podcast show, during which he talked about Lillard scoring 71 points.
Talking about the most unforgettable Trail Blazers moment, Billups said: "When Lillard scored 71 points, I was actually not coaching at the time. At that moment, I felt like I was watching the ball."
On February 27, 2023, the Trail Blazers faced the Rockets at home. Facing the young Rockets, Lillard, who was still in the Trail Blazers at the time, showed his arsenal. He played for 39 minutes and 11 seconds, made 22 of 38 shots (13 of 22 three-pointers), and made all 14 free throws. He scored a career-high 71 points so far, plus 6 rebounds and 6 assists, with a plus-minus value of +21. The Trail Blazers finally defeated the Rockets, who had six players scoring in double figures, 131-114, and successfully defended their home court.