It’s Officially Confirmed: On October 12, Roy Williams and His Wife Pay $200 Million to Support UNC Tar Heel Basketball Students in 2025
In an extraordinary act of generosity and love for the University of North Carolina, legendary basketball coach Roy Williams and his wife, Wanda Williams, have officially pledged a staggering $200 million to support UNC Tar Heel basketball students. The monumental announcement, made on October 12, 2025, has sent shockwaves throughout the college sports world, marking one of the largest single donations ever made to a university athletic program in history.
The donation, confirmed by UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz and Athletic Director Bubba Cunningham, will directly fund scholarships, player development programs, academic initiatives, and mental health support for student-athletes. According to officials, this massive contribution symbolizes the Williams family’s lifelong commitment to education, leadership, and the Carolina basketball family that has defined their lives for decades.
“This is about giving back to a place that gave us everything,” Roy Williams said during the emotional announcement ceremony at the Dean E. Smith Center in Chapel Hill. “Carolina is more than just a school—it’s home. Every student who wears that Tar Heel jersey deserves the chance to succeed not just on the court, but in life. Wanda and I wanted to make sure that happens for generations to come.”
The 74-year-old Hall of Fame coach, who led UNC to three NCAA Championships (in 2005, 2009, and 2017), is no stranger to generosity. But this $200 million donation elevates his legacy to a new level—cementing his reputation not only as one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history but also as one of its most compassionate humanitarians.
University officials revealed that the funds will be divided into several long-term endowments. A significant portion will go toward a new initiative called the “Roy & Wanda Williams Student-Athlete Empowerment Fund,” designed to provide financial assistance, leadership training, and post-graduation opportunities for student-athletes across all sports. Another portion will support infrastructure upgrades for basketball facilities, ensuring the next generation of Tar Heels can train with the best resources available.
“This is more than a gift—it’s a transformation,” said Chancellor Guskiewicz. “The Williams family has once again shown what it means to embody the Carolina Way. Their generosity will impact students for decades, giving them the tools, the stability, and the belief they need to thrive.”
Former players and fans have taken to social media to express overwhelming gratitude. NBA star Harrison Barnes, who played under Williams, wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “Coach has always been about people, not just basketball. This donation is proof that his heart for Carolina never stops beating.”
Even current UNC Head Coach Hubert Davis, who succeeded Williams in 2021, was visibly emotional during the announcement. “Coach Williams taught me what it means to serve others through this program. Today, he and Wanda have shown that in the most powerful way imaginable. Their generosity ensures that every Tar Heel who comes through this program will have a chance to chase greatness.”
Roy Williams retired in 2021 after an illustrious career with a record of 903 wins, including 485 victories with North Carolina. Since stepping away from coaching, he and his wife have remained deeply involved in campus life, mentoring students, attending games, and contributing to numerous community projects.
The timing of this announcement, coming just as the Tar Heels gear up for the 2025–2026 NCAA season, has energized the UNC community with renewed hope and pride. The donation is not only a financial boost but also a heartfelt reminder of the enduring bond between the Williams family and Carolina basketball.
As the crowd at the Dean Dome gave a standing ovation, Roy Williams ended his speech with words that perfectly captured the spirit of the day:
“Carolina basketball has given me a lifetime of memories. Now, it’s our turn to make sure future Tar Heels get the same chance. This isn’t just a donation—it’s a thank-you.”
With $200 million dedicated to shaping future champions, Roy and Wanda Williams have once again proven that their love for Carolina basketball goes far beyond the game itself—it’s a legacy of faith, gratitude, and giving that will echo through Chapel Hill forever.