In a landmark announcement that has sent ripples through the college basketball landscape, nine-time NBA All-Star Damian Lillard has officially stepped into a pivotal new role as the general manager for the Weber State men’s basketball team, returning to his alma mater to shape the future of the program.
The electrifying news was unveiled before an enthusiastic crowd during the Weber State Alumni Classic on August 2nd, a moment that underscored Lillard’s deep-rooted connection to the university where he first rose to prominence. His commitment signals a significant strategic move for the Wildcats’ athletic department, aiming to leverage his elite professional experience for collegiate success.
Lillard articulated a clear vision for his new endeavor, emphasizing the foundational elements required for sustained achievement. “Success doesn’t come overnight,” he stated, acknowledging the dynamic nature of modern basketball. “College athletics is constantly evolving, and building a strong program requires time, trust, and commitment.” He further stressed the importance of community support, underscoring his desire to play a more active role in fostering the program’s growth.
This appointment positions Lillard among a growing cadre of high-profile NBA figures who are dedicating their post-playing or active careers to collegiate leadership roles at their former institutions. He joins the ranks of stars like Stephen Curry and Trae Young, reinforcing a trend where professional insights are brought to bear on the development of young talent within the NCAA framework.
Beyond the administrative duties, Lillard expressed a profound personal investment in the players’ long-term success. He shared his passion for helping athletes “continue to grow their careers past college,” indicating a mentorship aspect to his general manager responsibilities that extends beyond immediate on-court performance.
Lillard’s illustrious collegiate journey at Weber State from 2009 to 2012 laid the groundwork for his NBA superstardom. During his four seasons, he averaged an impressive 18.8 points and 3.5 assists per game, showcasing remarkable efficiency with 44.6% field goal shooting and 86.7% from beyond the arc. His senior year was particularly standout, earning him All-America honors and making him the first Big Sky player to achieve such recognition before being drafted sixth overall by the Trail Blazers in 2012.
Tim Crompton, Weber State’s Director of Athletics, lauded Lillard’s unwavering dedication to the university. Crompton highlighted Lillard’s enduring impact, stating, “From his days as a Wildcat to his success as a professional, Damian Lillard has remained deeply connected to Weber State, leaving an enduring mark on our university.” He affirmed that Lillard’s new role provides Coach Duft and the entire program a substantial advantage in their ongoing efforts to build for the future.
While undertaking this new collegiate challenge, Lillard’s professional basketball career has seen recent shifts. He was notably waived by the Milwaukee Bucks on July 18th and is currently expected to miss the 2025-26 NBA season with the Trail Blazers as he recuperates from a torn Achilles tendon injury sustained during the recent NBA Playoffs.
Damian Lillard’s return to Weber State as general manager represents a powerful convergence of alumni loyalty, professional expertise, and a fervent commitment to nurturing the next generation of basketball talent. His presence is poised to significantly elevate the profile and competitive edge of the Wildcats program, creating an exciting new chapter for Weber State basketball.
