Weber State Lands Portland Trail Blazer Star as Basketball GM

Damian Lillard Takes the Reins at Weber State Basketball as General Manager

BREAKING NEWS: NBA superstar Damian lillard is embarking on a new chapter in his basketball journey, stepping into the role of General Manager for the Weber State wildcats menS basketball programme. The nine-time NBA All-Star, who previously starred for Weber State before declaring for the NBA draft, announced his new position Saturday night at the Weber State Basketball Alumni Classic in Ogden, Utah.

Lillard expressed his deep connection to his alma mater and his desire to contribute to the program’s success. “My relationship with coach [Eric] Duft and this program means a lot to me,” Lillard stated, as reported by the Standard-Examiner. “I feel like I can do a lot to help the program be accomplished, to help the players even individually continue to grow their careers past college, that’s something that I’m passionate about.”

This move by Lillard highlights a growing trend in collegiate athletics, were prominent figures are taking on advisory and administrative roles amidst the evolving landscape of college sports, including the transfer portal and Name, image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. The General Manager position is designed to offer strategic oversight, mentorship, and guidance, leveraging the extensive experience of individuals like Lillard.

During his tenure at Weber State from 2009-2012, Lillard left an indelible mark. He was a two-time Big Sky MVP and the program’s only all-American, finishing fourth in career scoring and third in three-pointers made. His decision to return to the institution where his collegiate career flourished is a testament to his commitment to giving back to the game and to the younger generation of athletes.

The Weber State athletic department confirmed that Lillard will collaborate closely with the coaching staff and athletic department leadership,providing insights and mentorship derived from his distinguished collegiate and professional career. This appointment comes as Lillard is currently rehabilitating from a left Achilles tendon tear sustained in April, an injury that will likely sideline him for the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season. His agreement to return to the Trail Blazers was finalized last month.

Evergreen Insights:

Damian Lillard’s appointment as General manager at Weber State underscores a important shift in how successful athletes are engaging with college sports. Beyond the allure of NIL deals, athletes are increasingly seeking meaningful ways to contribute to the growth of future talent and the strategic direction of programs that shaped their early careers. This role, frequently enough a blend of strategic planning, player development support, and mentorship, allows Lillard to leverage his deep understanding of the game honed over years of professional play.

Furthermore, Lillard’s involvement signals a potential blueprint for other high-profile athletes looking to remain connected to collegiate athletics. As the dynamics of college sports continue to transform, experienced voices offering guidance on navigating player welfare, program building, and career progression become invaluable. Lillard’s passion for helping players grow “past college” speaks to a holistic approach to athlete development, recognizing that success extends beyond the court and into post-collegiate life and careers.This move could inspire similar initiatives, fostering stronger bridges between professional athletes and the collegiate systems that nurtured them.

How will Stoudamire’s NBA scouting experience influence Weber State’s recruiting strategy?

From the court to the Front Office: A New Era for Weber State Basketball

The landscape of college basketball, and specifically Weber State University’s athletic program, has been dramatically altered with the announcement that former Portland Trail Blazer star and NBA veteran, Damon Stoudamire, has accepted the position of General Manager for the Weber State Wildcats men’s basketball team.This move, confirmed on August 3, 2025, marks a significant investment in the program’s future and signals a clear ambition to elevate Weber State to new heights in the Big Sky conference and beyond. The appointment is already generating buzz amongst college basketball recruiting circles.

Stoudamire’s NBA & Coaching Background: A Winning Pedigree

Damon Stoudamire, affectionately known as “Mighty Mouse” during his playing days, brings a wealth of experience to Weber State. his career highlights include:

NBA Veteran: A 13-year NBA career spanning multiple teams, including the Toronto Raptors, Portland Trail Blazers, and San Antonio Spurs.

All-Star Selection: Named an NBA All-Star in 2000.

Portland Trail Blazers Legacy: A fan favorite in Portland,where he played a pivotal role in the team’s success during the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Coaching Experience: Most recently served as an assistant coach with the Trail Blazers, gaining valuable insights into team management, player growth, and NBA scouting.

Pacific University Head Coach: Prior to returning to the NBA, Stoudamire served as the head coach at Pacific University, demonstrating his ability to lead and build a program from the ground up.

This diverse background – player, assistant coach, and head coach – provides Stoudamire with a unique perspective that few GMs possess. His understanding of the game, combined with his experience in player evaluation and development, positions him well to identify and cultivate talent for Weber State.

What This Means for Weber State Basketball: Strategic Implications

The appointment of Stoudamire as GM isn’t just about prestige; it’s a strategic move with far-reaching implications. Here’s a breakdown of the key areas where Weber state is highly likely to see an impact:

Enhanced Recruiting: Stoudamire’s NBA profile and connections will undoubtedly attract higher-caliber recruits. Expect increased interest from top high school basketball players in the region and nationally.

Improved Player Development: His experience working with NBA-level talent will translate into a more sophisticated player development program at Weber State.Focus will likely be placed on skill refinement, strength and conditioning, and basketball analytics.

Modernized Scouting: Stoudamire is expected to implement a more data-driven scouting approach,leveraging advanced statistics and video analysis to identify undervalued talent.

Increased Program Visibility: The national attention surrounding Stoudamire’s hiring will elevate the profile of Weber State basketball, attracting media coverage and boosting fan engagement.

Fundraising Opportunities: A high-profile GM can be a significant asset in fundraising efforts, attracting donations from alumni and supporters.

the Role of a GM in College Basketball: Beyond Player Selection

While often associated with recruiting, the role of a GM in college basketball extends far beyond simply identifying and signing players. Stoudamire’s responsibilities will encompass:

1. Strategic Planning: developing a long-term vision for the program, including setting goals for conference championships and NCAA Tournament appearances.
2. Budget management: Overseeing the basketball program’s budget, ensuring resources are allocated effectively.
3. Staff Management: Working closely with the head coach to assemble a strong coaching staff.
4. Compliance: Ensuring the program adheres to all NCAA rules and regulations.
5. Game strategy Input: Providing input on game strategy and opponent scouting.
6. Alumni Relations: Cultivating relationships with former players to foster a strong sense of community.

Impact on the Big Sky Conference: A Shifting Power Dynamic

Stoudamire’s arrival at Weber State is poised to shake up the competitive landscape of the big Sky Conference. Historically dominated by teams like Montana and Northern Arizona, the conference now faces a new contender with significant resources and a high-profile leader. This will likely lead to:

Increased Competition: Other Big Sky programs will need to elevate their recruiting and development efforts to keep pace with Weber State.

Conference-Wide Investment: The success of Weber State could incentivize other schools to invest more in their basketball programs.

Enhanced Conference Profile: Increased national attention on the Big Sky Conference as a whole.

Focus on Transfer Portal: Expect increased activity in the college basketball transfer portal as teams compete for experienced players.

Looking Ahead: Expectations for the Wildcats

The expectations for Weber State basketball under stoudamire’s leadership are high. While immediate success isn’t guaranteed, the program is well-positioned to become a