Damian Lillard, a nine-time NBA All-Star, made an emotional statement during the Weber State Basketball Alumni Classic on August 2, 2025, that he would become the General Manager of the men’s basketball team at his alma school, Weber State University, in Ogden, Utah.  Lillard’s pledge demonstrates a strong affinity with the Wildcats, despite the fact that he is 35 years old and recovering from an Achilles injury that will keep him out of the NBA in 2025-26.

What the New Role Entails

Although Lillard’s title is “General Manager,” his responsibilities are adapted to a modern, developing college basketball setting.  Weber State authorities said he will:

Collaborate with Coach Eric Duft and the athletic leadership to provide strategic advice, mentoring, and program guidance.

Utilize his college and NBA expertise to help with recruitment, NIL strategy, player development, and program culture expansion.

Participate in on-campus visits and virtual planning meetings while balancing the position with his recuperation and other commitments.

While high-profile and important, Lillard’s new GM position is not full-time, allowing him to focus on his NBA comeback after signing a three-year, $42 million contract to return to the Portland Trail Blazers.

Why It Matters: A Legacy and a Mission

A Legacy Gives Back

Damian Lillard’s rise from Weber State standout to NBA legend is etched into the program’s identity.  Lillard, a two-time Big Sky MVP and All-American who was previously honored with his jersey retirement in 2017, says his engagement demonstrates his dedication to where it all started.

A Culture Architect

Lillard stated that “building a strong program requires time, trust, and commitment,” emphasizing his desire to maintain Weber State’s academic and athletic standards while also improving team identity and community support.

Advice and Network at Work

Lillard’s expertise in high-level basketball ecosystems and organizing premier camps positions him to boost player development pipelines, particularly in recruiting and assisting Wildcats in making the transition from college to professional basketball.

Broader Context: Athlete Alumni Leading the Way

Lillard’s hiring is consistent with a rising trend of former great athletes returning to university athletics as high-level executives.  Examples include Steph Curry’s advising role at Davidson and Andrew Luck’s role as GM at Stanford football.  These positions—particularly during the NIL era—combine star power with leadership, allowing programs to expand stably.

Vision for the Season: What’s Next

With Lillard as a mentor, recruitment and player development for the next 2025-26 season may gain traction, even as the club attempts in order to recover from a 12-22 record.

Program executives, including Athletic Director Tim Crompton and Coach Duft, are expected to include Lillard’s input into roster planning and NIL initiatives.

Fans and prospects should expect high-profile school visits, motivational events featuring Lillard, and long-term planning to develop Weber State into a perennial Big Sky competitor.

Final Takeaway: A Symbiotic Return

Damian Lillard’s return to Weber State as General Manager is more than just a branding coup; it’s a full-circle narrative about legacy, leadership, and a love of basketball roots.  While concentrating on recovery and his return to NBA courts, this job has relevance beyond the court: inspiring future Wildcats while creating the identity of a program that is important to Lillard’s path.

This new phase is not about retiring; it is about giving back and guiding the next generation—with Dame Time still intact.