Former MSU Basketball Legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson Donates $18.2 Million to Tom Izzo for New Stadium Project
East Lansing, MI – April 17, 2025 – Michigan State University received a historic boost this week as former Spartan basketball legend and NBA Hall-of-Famer Earvin “Magic” Johnson announced an $18.2 million donation toward the construction of a new basketball arena. The gift, the largest ever made by a former MSU athlete, underscores Johnson’s lifelong commitment to his alma mater and his enduring bond with Spartan basketball
The donation will support the ambitious stadium project spearheaded by current head coach Tom Izzo, who has been a fixture at Michigan State for over three decades. The new facility is expected to be a state-of-the-art complex designed to elevate the university’s basketball program to new heights in recruitment, training, and fan experience.
In a heartfelt statement during a press conference held at the Breslin Center, Johnson shared the motivation behind his historic contribution.
> “Wherever I go in the world, Spartan pride lives within me,” Johnson said. “This university gave me the foundation for everything I’ve accomplished. Coach Izzo has carried that legacy with passion and integrity, and it’s time to invest in the future. I want to make sure generations of Spartans to come have the resources to chase greatness.”
Johnson, who led Michigan State to its first NCAA Championship in 1979, has remained deeply involved with the university through philanthropic and community efforts. His latest donation will go directly toward the construction and development of the new arena, which will bear his name as the Earvin “Magic” Johnson Arena, pending final approval from the university board.
Coach Tom Izzo, visibly moved by the gesture, praised Johnson not only for his generosity but for the example he continues to set for student-athletes.
> “Magic’s gift goes beyond dollars — it’s about belief. It’s about commitment to excellence and family,” Izzo said. “He’s a Spartan through and through, and this investment ensures that Michigan State will remain a basketball powerhouse for years to come. I’m honored to have coached in his shadow and to now build a new chapter with his name leading the way.”
The new arena is expected to break ground in spring 2026 and be completed by late 2028. University officials say the facility will seat approximately 18,000 fans and include enhanced amenities such as cutting-edge training facilities, expanded locker rooms, a Spartan Hall of Fame atrium, and increased space for fan engagement.
MSU President Dr. Teresa Woodruff called the gift “transformative” and highlighted the symbolic value of Johnson’s support.
> “Earvin Johnson is a global icon, but at heart, he’s always been a Spartan. This gift embodies his spirit of leadership and loyalty. It’s not just about building a stadium — it’s about investing in excellence, unity, and the future of Michigan State.
As news of the donation spread, alumni, fans, and current players took to social media to express gratitude and admiration. The resounding message: Magic Johnson’s legacy at MSU continues to shine as bright as ever — and the future of Spartan basketball looks even brighter.
