In a significant development that echoes his enduring commitment to his roots, nine-time NBA All-Star Damian Lillard has officially embraced a new leadership challenge, accepting the role of General Manager for the men’s basketball program at his alma mater, Weber State University. This unexpected yet inspiring move sees “Dame Time” extending his influence beyond the professional court, stepping into a pivotal administrative position that promises to shape the future of Wildcat basketball.
The announcement, made on Saturday night, followed Lillard’s recent return to the Portland Trail Blazers, marking a poignant full-circle moment for the revered athlete. While his immediate playing future remains uncertain due to a severe Achilles tendon injury sustained with the Milwaukee Bucks, his dedication to the sport remains unwavering, now channeled into a strategic, off-court capacity at the collegiate level.
Lillard’s new responsibilities as General Manager are comprehensive, requiring him to work in close collaboration with Weber State’s coaching staff and athletic department leadership. His profound experience as both a collegiate standout and an NBA luminary will be instrumental in providing crucial insight, mentorship, and guidance, directly elevating the program’s strategic direction and player development.
His journey with Weber State is deeply ingrained, beginning when the Portland Trail Blazers selected him as the sixth overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft. During his senior year in the 2011-12 season, Lillard averaged an impressive 24.5 points and shot 40.9 percent from beyond the arc in 32 games, earning third-team All-American honors and solidifying his status as a college basketball icon.
The bond between Lillard and Ogden, Utah, has always been exceptional. After graduating in 2015, Weber State honored his legacy by retiring his No. 1 jersey in 2017. Further cementing his place in the institution’s history, he was inducted into its athletics hall of fame in 2021 and the Big Sky Conference Hall of Fame in 2022, underscoring his lasting impact.
Weber State President Brad Mortensen lauded Lillard’s continued loyalty, stating, “Once again, Damian Lillard exemplifies loyalty and commitment to his alma mater. We are so grateful for his continued leadership and example he sets for Wildcats past, present, and future.” This sentiment reinforces the university’s profound appreciation for Lillard’s ongoing involvement.
Lillard himself expressed enthusiasm for his new venture, remarking, “I believe in what this program represents and the culture that continues to grow at Weber State. The support of our community is vital to the program’s success, and I am committed to playing a greater role in that effort.” His statement underscores a genuine desire to contribute meaningfully to the Wildcat Hoops program.
Beyond his collegiate achievements and new administrative role, Lillard boasts an illustrious NBA career. The nine-time All-Star and 2012-13 NBA Rookie of the Year has earned All-NBA selections seven times. His career averages stand at 25.1 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.3 rebounds across 900 regular-season games with Portland and Milwaukee. Notably, his 2,804 three-pointers rank fourth in NBA history, with his 22,598 points placing him eighth among active players, solidifying his status as an NBA Newsmaker.
This appointment marks a thrilling new chapter for Damian Lillard and Weber State Basketball, signifying a powerful synergy between a celebrated professional athlete and the institution that shaped him. As Sports Management continues to evolve, Lillard’s unique blend of playing experience and strategic acumen positions him to make a significant difference, ushering in a new era for College Basketball at Weber State.
