Damian Lillard hired to be Weber State men's basketball general manager
Dame Time Returns to Ogden: Damian Lillard Takes Helm as Weber State GM
NBA Star Leverages Experience to Build Wildcats Program
Damian Lillard, nine-time NBA All-Star and Weber State alumnus, is returning to his alma mater in a new capacity. The Portland Trail Blazers guard announced during the Weber State Alumni Classic on August 2nd that he has agreed to serve as the general manager for the Wildcats' men's basketball program.
"Success doesn't come overnight, especially in today's ever-changing basketball landscape," Lillard stated. "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... This opportunity allows me to be even more involved in shaping the future of Weber State basketball."
Lillard's role will involve working closely with the men's basketball staff and Weber State's athletic department. He joins a growing list of prominent NBA figures taking on general manager roles in college basketball, alongside Golden State Warriors guard Steph Curry, Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young, and Shaquille O’Neal 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," Lillard told the Standard-Examiner.
Lillard's legacy at Weber State is undeniable. He averaged 18.8 points and 3.5 assists per game over his four seasons (2009-2012), shooting a remarkable 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 then drafted No. 6 overall by the Trail Blazers in the 2012 NBA Draft.
"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," said Weber State's Director of Athletics Tim Crompton. “This new role allows him to contribute his vision and experience in a more formal way, further elevating our program...Damian’s dedication to Weber State is stronger than ever, further cementing his lasting impact on our community.”
Lillard recently signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Portland Trail Blazers after being waived by the Milwaukee Bucks. He is expected to miss the 2025-26 season as he recovers from a torn Achilles tendon injury sustained during the first round of the NBA Playoffs with the Bucks.