In a surprising and significant development, NBA superstar Damian Lillard is returning to his foundational roots, taking on a pivotal new role as the general manager of Weber State University’s basketball program. This strategic move underscores Lillard’s enduring commitment to the institution that shaped his collegiate career, signaling a fresh chapter for both the acclaimed player and the Wildcat athletic department.
The announcement unfolded during the sixth annual Weber State Basketball Alumni Classic in Ogden, Utah, an event Lillard himself hosted. The revelation sent ripples through the basketball community, highlighting Lillard’s dedication to giving back to the program where he honed his skills before achieving global recognition in the NBA.
Lillard’s history with Weber State is illustrious, spanning from 2008 to 2012. During his senior year, his exceptional performance, averaging 24.5 points per game with impressive shooting percentages, earned him his second Big Sky Player of the Year title and a coveted third-team All-American selection, cementing his legacy as a Wildcat legend.
This transition marks a unique turn in Lillard’s post-playing career trajectory. While recently making headlines for his movement within the professional ranks, including a brief stint with the Milwaukee Bucks before ultimately signing with the Portland Trail Blazers, his focus is now firmly set on collegiate basketball management. He is not expected to play during the 2025-26 NBA season, potentially serving as a quasi-assistant coach for the Trail Blazers during his recovery period.
Weber State University has articulated Lillard’s responsibilities as encompassing close collaboration with the coaching staff and athletic department leadership. His role will involve providing invaluable insight, mentorship, and guidance, leveraging his extensive experience from both collegiate and professional basketball to elevate the program’s standing and foster player development.
Lillard’s profound connection to Weber State extends beyond the court. He completed his degree in 2015, a testament to his dedication to academics. His iconic No. 1 jersey was retired in 2017, and in 2021, he received the distinguished honor of induction into the WSU Athletics Hall of Fame, underscoring his lasting impact on the university.
This appointment positions Damian Lillard not merely as a former player, but as a strategic leader poised to inject his profound understanding of the game and player pathways directly into the Weber State basketball ecosystem. His involvement promises to be a significant draw for aspiring collegiate athletes and a source of inspiration for the entire university community, bridging the gap between elite professional experience and burgeoning collegiate talent. The basketball world eagerly anticipates the impact of this high-profile return to his roots.
