NBA superstar Steph Curry has started a wave for former and current NBA players to take on roles in the NCAA. The latest to join the esteemed list is the Portland Trail Blazers’ Damian Lillard. Dame, who attended Weber State from 2008-2012, has become the general manager of their men’s basketball program.
The new trend of athletes going back to their roots to contribute to the program is extremely beneficial for the young athletes. Athletes like Dame understand what it takes to go pro and become great in the professional league. They can impart and instil wisdom in young minds.
“Success doesn’t come overnight, especially in today’s ever-changing basketball landscape,” Lillard said in a PRESS RELEASE. “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.”
Lillard said that this new association with his alma mater will allow him to help shape the future of the program. Weber State‘s Director of Athletics, Tim Crompton, praised Dame’s dedication toward the program despite his busy schedule as an NBA star.
“From his days as a Wildcat to his success as a professional, Damian Lillard has remained deeply connected to Weber State, leaving an enduring mark on our university,” Crompton said.
The former Wildcat recently rejoined the franchise that drafted him in 2012. After a two-year stint in Milwaukee, Dame went back to Portland, signing a $42 million, three-year deal. Dame is coming back home in more ways than one, and so are some of his peers and NBA legends.
Steph Curry, Shaquille O’Neal, and Trae Young have also taken up GM roles
The recent trend was started by Steph Curry, who went back to Davidson and became their assistant general manager. As an underrated young player, Davidson was the place that believed in Steph’s talent and nurtured him from 2006-2009.
As per ESPN’s Shams Charania, Steph will guide the male and female athletes at Davidson and will work with general manager Austin Buntz. NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal also became an unpaid front office member, but not at his alma mater, LSU, but at Sacramento State University.
“This isn’t about me—it’s about building something lasting for these young men and our community,” O’Neal said in a statement.”
Atlanta Hawks star and former Oklahoma Sooner, Trae Young, joined his alma mater in April this year. Young is the assistant GM of hoops.
“As someone who grew up in Norman and played at the University of Oklahoma, stepping into the role of assistant GM for OU Basketball is a huge honor,” Young said. “This program has such a rich history, which I am fortunate to have been and continue to be a part of.”
Young said that he will be working closely with the coaching staff and front office in order to bring the right talent to Oklahoma and help them grow into professionals.
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