In a surprising career twist, NBA superstar Damian Lillard is stepping into a front-office role – not in the NBA, but back at his alma mater. While recovering from a torn Achilles tendon, the nine-time All-Star is taking over as general manager of the Weber State Wildcats, the very program where he launched his basketball career.
Lillard, who recently inked a three-year, $42 million contract with the Portland Trail Blazers, won’t be suiting up for the 2025-26 NBA season due to his injury. Instead, the 35-year-old will use the year to mentor young players and help rebuild a struggling Weber State program that hasn’t seen the NCAA Tournament since 2016.
“My relationship with coach (Eric) Duft and this program means a lot to me,”Lillard said while announcing his new role at an alumni game. “I feel like I can do a lot to help the program be successful… That’s something I’m passionate about.”
Lillard will be a key advisor for the Wildcats
Lillard starred at Weber State for four seasons before being drafted sixth overall by the Blazers in 2012. After a short stint with the Milwaukee Bucks – where he helped the team reach the 2025 playoffs before suffering his injury – he was waived in July and returned to Portland in free agency.
Now, he’s going from NBA hardwood to NCAA front office. Weber State described Lillard as “a key advisor and mentor to the team,” who will work closely with coaching staff and athletic department leaders to “shape the future of Wildcat basketball.”
Basketball player, rapper, and general manager
Already known for juggling careers as an elite point guard and rapper (under the name Dame D.O.L.L.A.), Lillard is proving his versatility once again – this time as a basketball executive.
“I believe in what this program represents and the culture that continues to grow at Weber State,” he added in a statement.
While his playing days are on pause, Lillard’s impact on the game is far from over.
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