Damian Lillard scores 25 as Trail Blazers rout Suns in season opener

Damian Lillard scored 25 points in his first regular-season game back with Portland on Wednesday night.

The Trail Blazers beat the Phoenix Suns 124-83 in their season opener at Moda Center in Portland.

Lillard missed last season while recovering from a torn Achilles tendon he suffered with the Milwaukee Bucks.

He spent his first 11 NBA seasons with Portland, then played two seasons in Milwaukee before signing a three-year deal to return in July 2025.

The home crowd gave him a standing ovation, reflecting his close ties to the city and its fans.

Portland's 21-0 opening run was the league's biggest to start a game in 25 years.

Ja Morant also made his Trail Blazers debut, scoring 14 points.