TUSKEGEE, Ala. (AP) - NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley has pledged $1 million to Tuskegee University, marking his fifth major donation to a historically black college, the university announced.
The retired basketball star pledged the same amount to Miles College earlier this year. In 2016, he pledged $1 million to both Alabama A&M in Huntsville and Clark Atlanta University and in 2017 he pledged $1 million to Morehouse College in Atlanta.
“We are excited to learn that Mr. Barkley made it a priority to support Tuskegee University,” interim President Dr. Charlotte Morris said in a statement. “His philanthropy will play a crucial role in advancing the university’s strategic goals.”
The gift is unrestricted, but Barkley told al.com he hopes it goes to academic scholarships.
Barkley is a native of Leeds, Alabama and a graduate of Auburn University. In 2000, he retired from the NBA as one of only four players in NBA history with 20,000 points, 10,000 rebounds and 4,000 assists.
Since retiring, Barkley has worked as a basketball commentator with TNT. In addition, he has written several books.
Tuskegee is a private institution with more than 3,000 students. It was found in 1881 by Booker T. Washington.
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