In a monumental gesture of gratitude and Spartan spirit, billionaire businessman and Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia has announced a stunning $22.2 million donation to Michigan State University to kickstart the construction of a brand-new football stadium. The contribution marks the single largest individual athletic donation in the university’s history.
In an emotional press conference held at Spartan Stadium, Ishbia stood before a crowd of students, alumni, and athletes, declaring, “Spartan pride built me. Now I’m building back.” The 2003 Michigan State alum and former walk-on point guard for the men’s basketball team credited the university for shaping both his personal and professional journey.
The new stadium, to be named “Spartan Legacy Field,” will replace parts of the current Spartan Stadium infrastructure and include a state-of-the-art locker room complex, upgraded fan experience zones, advanced sports medicine facilities, and increased seating capacity. University officials project the stadium to be completed by the 2027 season.
“Mat’s generosity isn’t just a donation—it’s a transformational moment for Michigan State athletics,” said MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz. “This gift honors the past, energizes the present, and secures the future for generations of Spartan athletes and fans.”
The donation comes as part of MSU’s broader “Green & Bold” athletic development campaign, which aims to elevate Michigan State’s status among the nation’s premier athletic programs. Ishbia, who made his fortune through United Wholesale Mortgage and recently made headlines by purchasing the NBA’s Phoenix Suns for $4 billion, has remained deeply connected to his alma mater.
“I’ve never forgotten what it felt like to wear that Spartan jersey,” Ishbia said. “Even though I played basketball, this gift is for all Spartan athletes—especially those grinding every day with no spotlight.”
Head football coach Jonathan Smith expressed excitement about the development, saying, “This new stadium is more than just concrete and seats—it’s a symbol of our rise. And thanks to Mat, our recruits, fans, and players will feel that energy every game.”
With construction slated to begin in spring 2026, Spartan Legacy Field is expected to usher in a new era of Michigan State football, one grounded in history, pride, and a deep commitment to excellence.
Spartans, it seems, don’t just play for legacy—they build it.
