In a monumental act of generosity and commitment to his alma mater, NBA Hall of Famer and Michigan State University legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson has announced a $60 million donation to the Michigan State Spartans basketball program — the largest single donation in the history of MSU athletics.
The gift, unveiled at a packed press conference inside the Breslin Center on Thursday afternoon, is expected to transform the future of Spartans basketball, both on and off the court.
“This university made me who I am,” Johnson said, standing alongside MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz and Head Coach Tom Izzo. “It gave me the tools, the community, and the platform to dream big. This is my way of saying ‘thank you’ and helping the next generation of Spartans reach even greater heights.”
According to school officials, the donation will fund a complete renovation of the Breslin Center, upgrade training and academic facilities, and establish the “Magic Johnson Excellence Fund,” a scholarship and mentorship program aimed at supporting underprivileged student-athletes. A portion of the funds will also go toward mental health services and leadership development initiatives for MSU athletes.
The centerpiece of the renovation project will be the newly named Earvin “Magic” Johnson Performance Center, a state-of-the-art facility designed to rival the top athletic programs in the nation.
“This is more than a donation. This is a legacy,” said Coach Izzo, who praised Johnson not only for his financial commitment but also for his continued presence in the Spartan community. “Magic has always been there for us — mentoring players, attending games, and showing up when it matters most. But this takes everything to another level.”
The announcement has already sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, with many analysts predicting this move will solidify Michigan State as a premier destination for top recruits.
Johnson, who led the Spartans to the 1979 NCAA Championship before launching one of the most iconic NBA careers in history, emphasized that the gift was about “building something that lasts.”
“I want kids in Lansing, Detroit, Flint — all across Michigan — to know that their dreams are valid. If I made it from here, so can they,” he said, emotion thick in his voice.
Michigan State will begin construction on the new facilities in early 2026, with full completion expected by the 2027–28 season.
