Antawn Jamison’s Monumental Gift to UNC Basketball: A Legacy of Giving, Greatness, and Growth
In a powerful act of giving back to the university that shaped him, NBA All-Star and North Carolina basketball legend Antawn Jamison has announced a multi-million dollar endowment in support of the Tar Heels basketball program. The generous gift will specifically fund youth development initiatives, mentoring programs, and athlete support services—further solidifying Jamison’s place not only as one of the greatest to ever wear Carolina Blue but also as a passionate advocate for the next generation of student-athletes.
Jamison, who played for the Tar Heels from 1995 to 1998, left a lasting legacy in Chapel Hill. During his collegiate career, he became one of the most dominant forwards in the country, earning the Naismith and Wooden Awards and leading UNC to two Final Fours. His name still echoes through the halls of the Dean E. Smith Center, where his jersey hangs in the rafters—an enduring symbol of excellence, leadership, and commitment to the Carolina way.
Now, with this landmark endowment, Jamison is writing a new chapter of his legacy—one focused not on points and rebounds, but on purpose and impact. His gift will provide crucial resources to expand youth basketball camps, life skills development programs, and mentorship networks for underserved communities in North Carolina and beyond. These initiatives aim to inspire young athletes not just to dream of playing at UNC, but to succeed in life both on and off the court.
In a public statement, Jamison reflected on the impact UNC had on his life:
> “North Carolina gave me the foundation I needed to grow—not just as a player, but as a man. This endowment is about passing that forward. I want kids to believe that no matter where they come from, greatness is possible.”
The endowment is already being heralded by the university and Tar Heel faithful as a transformative moment for the program. UNC Head Coach Hubert Davis praised the move, saying, “Antawn has always been a leader. His generosity shows his belief in what Carolina stands for. This gift will give young people opportunities that can change their lives forever.”
This announcement comes during a time of renewed energy around UNC athletics, as the university continues to honor its rich basketball tradition while innovating for the future. Jamison’s contribution reflects a deep loyalty to the values of mentorship, education, and community that define the Tar Heel ethos.
More than just a financial gift, this endowment is a statement—a reminder that greatness isn’t only measured by statistics or championships, but also by how much one gives back. For Antawn Jamison, it’s clear: his heart never left Chapel Hill. And now, generations of future Tar Heels will benefit from the seeds he’s planting today.
Through this bold act of generosity, Jamison ensures his story continues—not just in the records books, but in the lives
of those he lifts.
