In a significant development poised to reshape collegiate sports administration, Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard is making a groundbreaking return to his alma mater, Weber State University, to assume the pivotal role of general manager for its esteemed basketball program. This strategic move by one of the NBA’s most respected figures signals a growing trend of professional athletes reinvesting their expertise and influence into the foundational levels of the sport, particularly in College Athletics where their insights can prove invaluable.
The announcement by Damian Lillard, 35, unfolded during his hosting of the Weber State Basketball Alumni Classic in Ogden, Utah, just two weeks after he committed to a new three-year deal with the Trail Blazers. This dual commitment underscores Lillard’s deep-rooted connection to his collegiate origins and his proactive approach to Sports Management, demonstrating a vision that extends far beyond his active playing career in the NBA.
Lillard articulated his profound belief in the Wildcats’ program, stating, “Success doesn’t come overnight, especially in today’s ever-changing basketball landscape. College athletics is constantly evolving, and building a strong program requires time, trust, and commitment.” His words emphasize the demanding nature of college basketball and his dedication to fostering a robust environment for Player Development within the Weber State Basketball ecosystem, vital for future success.
This pioneering venture into an NBA General Manager type role at the collegiate level highlights a nascent but impactful shift where high-profile athletes leverage their strategic understanding of the game and their business acumen. Such appointments are designed to enhance recruitment, operational efficiency, and overall program visibility, creating a more professional and competitive edge for university teams in the complex landscape of intercollegiate sports.
Lillard’s decision is not an isolated incident but rather part of a burgeoning trend among elite basketball players. He follows in the footsteps of Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry, who was appointed assistant GM at Davidson, and Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young, who holds a similar role at Oklahoma. Furthermore, four-time NBA champion Shaquille O’Neal recently assumed the general manager position at Sacramento State, collectively illustrating a new paradigm where retired or active players are directly involved in shaping the future of collegiate programs.
Before his illustrious career with the Trail Blazers, where he was drafted sixth overall in 2012 and later crowned the 2013 NBA Rookie of the Year, Lillard established an indelible legacy at Weber State. During his four seasons from 2009 to 2012, he was a driving force, leading the Wildcats to two Big Sky Championships and earning two Big Sky MVP accolades, solidifying his status as a collegiate legend.
Lillard’s profound impact on Weber State Basketball has been continually recognized through various honors. His jersey was officially retired in 2017, followed by his induction into the school’s Athletics Hall of Fame in 2021, and most recently, the Big Sky Conference Hall of Fame in 2022. These accolades underscore his enduring influence and the deep respect he commands within the institution.
His new role as general manager signifies a commitment to leveraging this legacy and influence for the strategic advancement of College Athletics. It is expected that Lillard’s deep understanding of player needs, his recruiting prowess, and his overall vision will bring a new level of professionalism and success to the program, attracting top talent and elevating the Wildcats’ standing in the competitive world of men’s college basketball. This move truly represents an exciting new chapter for both Lillard and Weber State.
