In front of fans during Weber State’s Alumni Classic on Aug. 2, the nine-time NBA All-Star guard announced that he has agreed to return to his alma mater to serve as the general manager for the Wildcats’ men’s basketball program that he once starred in.
‘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. I believe in what this program represents and the culture that continues to grow at Weber State,’ Lillard said in a statement. ‘The support of our community is vital to the program’s success, and I am committed to playing a greater role in that effort. This opportunity allows me to be even more involved in shaping the future of Weber State basketball.’
Noted in Weber State’s news release, Lillard will work with the men’s basketball staff and Weber State’s athletic department in his role. He is also the latest prominent NBA figure to take on a general manager role in college basketball. The two-time Big Sky Player of the Year joins Golden State Warriors guard Steph Curry and Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young to do so at their alma mater, with Shaquille O’Neal taking on the role at Sacramento State.
‘I feel like I can do a lot to help the program be successful, to help the players even individually continue to grow their careers past college, that’s something that I’m passionate about,’ Lillard told the Standard-Examiner.
In his four seasons at Weber State from 2009-2012, Lillard averaged 18.8 points and 3.5 assists per game while shooting a career 44.6% from the field and 86.7% from beyond the arc. His standout senior season earned him All-America honors, making him the first Big Sky player to achieve that feat. He was drafted No. 6 overall by the Trail Blazers in the 2012 NBA Draft.
‘This new role allows him to contribute his vision and experience in a more formal way, further elevating our program. His support provides Coach Duft and the program a tremendous advantage as we continue building for the future. Damian’s dedication to Weber State is stronger than ever, further cementing his lasting impact on our community.’
Lillard signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Portland Trail Blazers on July 18 after the Milwaukee Bucks waived him. He is expected to miss the 2025-26 season with the Trail Blazers as he recovers from a torn Achilles tendon injury that he sustained during the first round of the NBA Playoffs with the Bucks.
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