Charles Barkley continues to contribute to HBCUs.
The Pro Basketball Hall of Famer and NBA on TNT analyst provided what was described as “a generous and transformative” donation to Bethune-Cookman University in the first installment of a $1 million pledge.
Reggie Theus, B-CU athletic director and men’s basketball coach, called the donation “a game changer.”
The highlight of that support was announced in April, when Theus and his staff broke ground on a new on-campus turf practice facility to house Bethune-Cookman football which is set to begin hosting the Wildcats this fall.
Barkley’s generosity allowed Theus to garner support for the athletic department partners such as Musco Lighting, The Honey Bear Project, and SCG Fields LLC. These businesses have been instrumental in the construction of the practice field, partnering directly with B-CU via price reductions and gifts-in-kind to show support, the school said.
“Progress is needed everywhere on campus,” Theus said. “I came here to make a difference, and that’s what I intend to do. We have so many needs, but none more significant than the need to build sustainable partnerships. The list is long, and it’s getting longer. I’m seeking donors for a new track, basketball arena, locker rooms for our football team, and more.
“It’s a mountain to climb, and I’m at the bottom. Thanks to The Barkley Foundation and others, I’m not alone. B-CU can and will attract more donors like Barkley, who want to make a difference and continue a legacy started in 1904 by a determined Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune.”
