Damian Lillard Defends Caleb Swanigan Against Trolls & Online Bullies

BYErika Marie8.3K Views
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Damian Lillard, Caleb Swanigan, Bullying, Trolling, Weight
Lillard stepped up for his former teammate after new photos showed Swanigan gained weight, saying, "You don't know WHAT it is he's going through."

He was once a first-round NBA draft pick, but this week it was shared that Caleb Swanigan had legal troubles. The former Portland Trail Blazers star played his last game just last year, and since that time, photos show that he's put on a few pounds, reportedly in excess of 400. Photos of a heavier Swanigan circulated with the news of his December arrest after police found over three pounds of weed in his vehicle. The internet can be a cruel place and soon, memes and taunts were sent Swanigan's way.

However, not everyone wanted to join in with the online bullying. Crossed Sports reposted a tweet that showed Swanigan during his NBA career and what he looks like now, and the tweet included the question, "How the hell does one go from this to that in a year?????" Damian Lillard, Swanigan's former teammate, came to his defense and questioned the post.

"If you gone post this sh*t with real concern that's cool," Lillard penned in the comments. "But don't ask 'how does one go from 'this to that' ... he clearly having real life issues. That's  how... you don't know WHAT it is he's going through to cause a drastic change . If you gone be supportive then do that but don't ask no sh*t like that like it's not possible when you naturally a big dude and go down a dark road."

Lillard has been praised online by sports fans, publications, and his fellow players. Crossed Sports took down the post. Check it out below.

About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.
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