Former Basketball Legend Greg Kelser Donates Entire $12.2 Million to Launch New Michigan State Basketball Court Project, Honoring Spartan Pride and Investing in the Future of MSU Hoops
In a remarkable act of generosity and enduring loyalty, former basketball great Greg Kelser has donated his entire $12.2 million fortune to fund the construction of a state-of-the-art basketball court project for Michigan State University (MSU). This historic contribution not only reflects his unwavering pride in being a Spartan but also cements his legacy as a champion both on and off the court.
Greg Kelser, a standout player during his time at MSU in the late 1970s, played a pivotal role in leading the Spartans to the 1979 NCAA Championship alongside Magic Johnson. Known for his athleticism, intelligence, and leadership, Kelser went on to play in the NBA before becoming a respected broadcaster. Despite his professional success beyond East Lansing, Kelser has never forgotten the foundation Michigan State laid for his life.
“I carry Michigan State with me wherever I go,” Kelser stated during a press conference announcing the donation. “This university gave me a platform, a purpose, and a second family. It’s only right that I give back in a way that ensures future generations of Spartans have the resources they need to succeed.”
The $12.2 million gift will fully finance a new basketball facility designed to elevate the training, performance, and development of MSU athletes. The court will feature advanced flooring technology, enhanced locker rooms, rehabilitation centers, and upgraded spectator seating. The facility is also expected to be used for community events and youth development programs, making it a hub for both MSU students and the larger Michigan community.
University officials praised Kelser’s gesture as one of the most impactful donations in MSU athletics history. Athletic Director Alan Haller called the donation “a game-changer,” emphasizing its potential to uplift not only the basketball program but also student-athletes across the board. “Greg Kelser has always represented the best of what it means to be a Spartan. His commitment ensures that we can offer our athletes world-class facilities and inspire excellence in every generation.”
MSU head basketball coach Tom Izzo, who has long admired Kelser’s legacy, was visibly emotional while speaking about the gift. “Greg has always been a role model. What he’s done with this donation is nothing short of extraordinary. It shows our players that being a Spartan isn’t just about playing hard—it’s about giving back and lifting others.”
Construction on the new court is expected to begin later this year, with a projected completion date in 2026. The facility will be named the Greg Kelser Basketball Complex in honor of his generous contribution and lasting influence on Michigan State athletics.
Greg Kelser’s $12.2 million donation is not just an investment in bricks and mortar—it is an investment in people, in community, and in the Spartan spirit. As MSU looks to the future, his legacy will echo in every bounce of the ball on that new hardwood.
