Damian Lillard

Damian Lillard transitioned from a lightly recruited college athlete to an NBA superstar, Olympic gold medalist, and successful recording artist, showcasing versatility on and off the court. After being selected sixth overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2012 NBA Draft, Damian Lillard made an immediate impact, earning unanimous NBA Rookie of the Year honors in 2013 and setting a rookie record for three-pointers made in a season. Prior to his NBA career, Lillard distinguished himself at Weber State University, where he earned Big Sky Conference Freshman of the Year and first-team All-Big Sky honors in his freshman year (2008-09), averaging 11.5 points per game. He led the Wildcats to a conference championship as a sophomore, increasing his scoring to 19.9 points per game and receiving his first Big Sky Player of the Year award.

Off the court, Lillard has also established a successful career as a hip-hop artist under the moniker Dame D.O.L.L.A., releasing multiple albums and founding his own record label, showcasing his diverse talents beyond professional basketball. Looking ahead to 2025, after a brief return to the Trail Blazers following a serious Achilles injury, Lillard is slated to transition into a new leadership role, accepting the general manager position for the Weber State Wildcats men’s basketball program. This move further highlights his commitment to the sport and his alma mater, extending his impact into sports management and development.