I own a Portland Trail Blazers Mitchell and Ness snapback hat (sorry, Oleh & David). I bought it immediately after they signed Damian Lillard to a long-term extension this summer, and I knew that he was going to thrust into a primary leadership role. As a basketball enthusiast, adorer, and fan, I wanted to be sure that I supported anything spearheaded by Lillard.
Portland did not have many groupies (let alone supporters) back in July. All of the prominent figures on the roster had moved on to greener pastures via free agency or trade.