Domantas Sabonis Donates Record Gift to Gonzaga Basketball

Massive Alumni Investment Unveiled

Former Sacramento Kings forward‑center Domantas Sabonis, a three‑time NBA All‑Star, has become the latest former player to make a transformative investment in collegiate basketball. The amount remains undisclosed, but the gift is being called the largest ever given by an ex‑player to Gonzaga’s programs. Sabonis’ involvement was confirmed yesterday during a Bank of America golf clinic for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Spokane. The donation supports both the men’s and women’s basketball teams at the university.

Donation Details and Facility Naming

News of the gift was celebrated with a ceremony naming the new Sabonis Family Strength & Conditioning Center, located next to the Steve Hertz Basketball Practice Facility inside the Volkar Center. The event brought together the coaching staff, the upcoming roster, and a crowd of family members, creating a warm atmosphere for the unveiling. The center’s name honors Sabonis’ family and underscores his commitment to athlete development.

Quotes from Sabonis and Coach Few

In his remarks, Sabonis thanked Gonzaga for shaping his life on and off the court and explained that the family’s goal is to inspire future student‑athletes with the same opportunities he received. Coach Mark Few praised Sabonis for embodying the “Zag” spirit and highlighted how the gift will have a lasting impact on current and upcoming players. Both men emphasized hard work, dedication, and the importance of giving back to the community.

Impact on Current and Future Players

The new facility will be used by numerous current and future basketball players, offering enhanced training options that could help them pursue NBA or WNBA aspirations. Sabonis’ name will be permanently linked to the program, serving as a beacon for younger athletes aiming for professional careers. The investment reflects his belief that Gonzaga’s focus on developing student‑athletes extends well beyond the court.

Notable Attendees and Eligibility Note

Kevin Pangos, the former point guard who mentored a freshman Sabonis during the 2014‑15 season, was among the guests, as was redshirt senior forward Braden Huff, who shares a history of knee injuries with Sabonis. Sophomore guard Mario Saint‑Supery and forward/center Izan Almansa also attended after competing for Spain in the FIBA World Cup qualifiers in Georgia. Almansa’s presence raises questions about his NCAA eligibility battle, but the focus of the night remained on celebrating the donation. The crowd also included Sabonis’ wife, Shashana Rosen, and their three children—Tiger, Eleven Rose, and Tauras Levi.

Arden Cravalho, a Gonzaga graduate from the Bay Area, covered the event and can be followed on social media for more updates. His reporting highlights the broader significance of alumni contributions to college sports. The story underscores how a single gift can shape an entire athletic program.