LOCAL ATHLETES

Damian Lillard Steps In As Weber State Men’s Basketball General Manager

Aug 3, 2025, 2:42 PM | Updated: Aug 4, 2025, 3:59 pm

Portland Trail Blazers star guard Damian Lillard is taking on a larger role with his alma mater Weber State Wildcats.

On Saturday, Lillard was announced as the new general manager of the Weber State Men’s Basketball program.

In a press release from the school, it was explained that Lillard would “work closely with the coaching staff and athletic department leadership to provide insight, mentorship, and guidance, using his experience at the collegiate and professional levels to elevate the program.”

Lillard played for the Wildcats from 2008 to 2012. He scored 1,934 points during his time in Ogden. His jersey was retired by the university in 2017.

Also in the press release, Lillard spoke on what it meant to go back to his college roots with a leadership role.

“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. 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.”

Lillard won’t see the court in the upcoming season as he rehabs his injury so the new role with Weber State comes at a time when his schedule will be more open.

Barring a reinjury or other unforeseen circumstances, Lillard will return to the court at 36 years old in the 2026-2027 NBA season.

About Damian Lillard

Before his time as a professional, Lillard was a standout player for the Weber State men’s basketball team. He left Weber State as the program’s second-leading scorer all-time.

Lillard was drafted by Portland with the 6th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft. Lillard played for Portland from 2012 to 2023.

In 2022, Lillard was recognized as one of the NBA’s 75 greatest players in history.

After the 2022-2023 season, Lillard joined Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks. He played in 131 games over two seasons with the Bucks.

In 2025, Lillard tore his Achilles in the postseason, leaving him out for the offseason and the entirety of the 2025-2026 season.

Milwaukee stretched out his contract to buy him out. On the open market, Lillard decided to return home with the Trail Blazers.

Chandler Holt is a co-host of the Jazz Notes podcast, a Locals In The NFL Insider, and Digital Sports Producer for sports.ksl.com. Follow Chandler on X for Utah Jazz and Locals In The NFL updates.

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Damian Lillard Steps In As Weber State Men’s Basketball General Manager