Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard scored 25 points in a 123-103 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on November 10, 2026, continuing his strong return to NBA basketball following an Achilles injury. The nine-time All-Star has averaged around 20 points per game during Portland’s opening stretch, bringing renewed attention to his career and the family that supported his journey from Oakland to professional basketball.
Damian Lillard’s parents are Gina Johnson and Houston Lillard, who raised him in Oakland, California. Both played important roles in his upbringing, helping him develop the discipline, financial awareness and commitment to family that he has frequently discussed throughout his NBA career.
Who Are Damian Lillard’s Parents?
Damian Lillard was born on July 15, 1990, in Oakland, California, to Gina Johnson and Houston Lillard. He grew up alongside his siblings, Houston Lillard Jr. and LaNae Lillard.
His parents separated while he was attending high school, but both remained involved in his life. Lillard has spoken publicly about how their guidance helped him navigate the challenges of growing up in Oakland.
His father emphasized responsibility, discipline and staying away from negative influences, while his mother supported his education and basketball ambitions.
Despite their separation, his parents continued encouraging his development as an athlete and student.
Damian Lillard’s Mother Gina Johnson
Gina Johnson played a significant role in Damian Lillard’s early basketball career. Before her son entered the NBA, she worked for a medical insurance company as a coordination and benefits specialist.
Johnson faced financial pressure and health difficulties while supporting her family. Lillard has recalled promising his mother during his teenage years that he would eventually reach the NBA and improve her financial situation.
When the Portland Trail Blazers selected him with the sixth overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, Lillard fulfilled that promise.
In a 2022 interview, he recalled visiting his mother’s workplace after signing his rookie contract and helping her leave her job.
“I literally went and helped her pack up her desk, everything,” Lillard said.
Johnson subsequently moved to Oregon with Lillard’s younger sister, LaNae, to support him during his first NBA season. She helped manage his daily responsibilities while he adjusted to professional basketball.
Lillard went on to win the NBA Rookie of the Year Award in 2013, fulfilling another goal he had discussed with his mother.
Damian Lillard’s Father Houston Lillard
Houston Lillard also influenced his son’s personality and approach to basketball. He grew up in Oakland and understood the challenges young people faced in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Lillard has credited his father with teaching him to recognize dangerous situations and avoid involvement with gangs and drugs.
Houston also encouraged his son to remain composed during basketball games. Lillard once recalled hitting an important three-pointer during high school and celebrating while the crowd reacted.
His father remained seated and calmly acknowledged the shot rather than joining the celebration. Lillard later explained that the moment helped shape his approach to success.
Houston also influenced his son’s financial habits. In a 2022 interview, Lillard explained that his father was careful with money and avoided unnecessary spending.
The NBA star said he adopted a similar approach after receiving his first major basketball contracts.
Damian Lillard’s Siblings and Family Background
Damian Lillard has two siblings, an older brother named Houston Lillard Jr. and a younger sister named LaNae.
His brother pursued football and received a scholarship to Southeast Missouri State University after playing at Laney College.
LaNae moved to Portland with their mother after Damian entered the NBA. The family remained closely connected as his basketball career developed.
Lillard has also spoken about growing up around numerous cousins and extended family members in Oakland. He recalled spending summers at his grandparents’ home, where relatives regularly gathered.
Those experiences influenced his approach to supporting family members financially after becoming a professional athlete.
How His Parents Influenced His NBA Career
Lillard attended Oakland High School before accepting a basketball scholarship to Weber State University in Ogden, Utah.
Although he received limited attention from major college programs, his parents encouraged him to remain committed to his decision.
He developed into one of Weber State’s leading players and entered the 2012 NBA Draft after four college seasons.
His professional achievements include nine NBA All-Star selections, the 2013 Rookie of the Year Award and an Olympic gold medal with the United States men’s basketball team.
After playing for the Milwaukee Bucks, Lillard returned to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2025.
His comeback has continued into the 2026-27 season, with Portland preparing for another meeting against Oklahoma City on November 11. His parents, Gina Johnson and Houston Lillard, remain central figures in the story of his upbringing and development as an NBA player.
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