On August 2nd, Damian Lillard, nine-time NBA All-Star and former Weber State standout, announced he would become the general manager of the Wildcats men’s basketball program, signaling a significant shift in the team’s leadership. This surprising move marks a major step for both Lillard and his alma mater, as he aims to bring his professional experience back to the college where his career began.
Having excelled at Weber State before entering the NBA, Lillard views this role as a way to impact the Wildcats’ future growth and success in a meaningful way.
Excitement Builds Around Lillard’s Impact on Weber State Basketball
The news surprised many, but Weber State head coach Eric Duft expressed his enthusiasm clearly. Sharing his excitement on social media, Duft highlighted the significance of Lillard’s return in a leadership capacity.
Always great to have them back in town. Weber State Wildcats new General Manager @damianlillard. Let’s get to work!
Eric Duft wrote.
Lillard’s history with the Wildcats is remarkable. Between 2009 and 2012, he established himself as one of Weber State’s most exceptional players, posting averages of 18.6 points and 3.5 assists per game, with a shooting percentage of 44.6% from the field and an impressive 86.7% at the free-throw line. His senior season earned him notable acclaim, making him the first player from the Big Sky Conference to be named an All-American.
Insights Into Lillard’s Vision for the Wildcats’ Progress
In conversations with reporters, Lillard elaborated on the goals guiding his new role.
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,
Damian Lillard told the Standard-Examiner.
His duties will include close cooperation with the men’s basketball coaching staff and the broader athletic department at Weber State. This appointment places Lillard alongside other NBA athletes, like Steph Curry, Trae Young, and Shaquille O’Neal, who have taken influential roles at their former schools.
Lillard openly acknowledges the challenges ahead and emphasizes patience, noting that transforming a program requires sustainable effort.
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,
he stated.
He added further,
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.
Weber State’s Athletics Director Highlights the Importance of Lillard’s Role
Tim Crompton, Weber State’s director of athletics, emphasized how vital Lillard’s involvement will be for the Wildcats.
From his days as a Wildcat to his success as a professional, Damian Lillard has remained deeply connected to Weber State. This new role allows him to contribute his vision and experience in a more formal way, further elevating our program.
Lillard’s appointment is more than symbolic; it represents a dedicated commitment to guiding Weber State’s basketball program into a new era. With one of the NBA’s brightest stars now part of the front office, the Wildcats’ future holds substantial promise under Lillard’s leadership.