**It’s Officially Confirmed: On October 10, Roy Williams and His Wife Pay $200 Million to Support UNC Tar Heel Basketball Students in 2025**

**It’s Officially Confirmed: On October 10, Roy Williams and His Wife Pay $200 Million to Support UNC Tar Heel Basketball Students in 2025**

In a historic and unprecedented act of generosity, former University of North Carolina men’s basketball coach Roy Williams and his wife, Wanda Williams, have officially committed $200 million to support Tar Heel basketball students. The announcement, confirmed on October 10, 2025, marks one of the largest private donations ever made to a college athletics program in the United States.

 

The $200 million gift will go directly toward scholarships, academic support, health and wellness programs, and player development for student-athletes in the UNC men’s basketball program. The Williamses, both lifelong Tar Heels and passionate advocates for education, stated that their intention is to ensure that every UNC basketball player has the resources, mentorship, and care needed to succeed both on the court and in life.

 

“This is about giving back to the university and program that gave us so much,” said Roy Williams during the press conference held at the Dean E. Smith Center. “These players commit their heart and soul to UNC, and we want to make sure they are fully supported—not just as athletes, but as students and future leaders.”

 

The donation has already sparked celebrations among the UNC community, alumni, and sports fans nationwide. Athletic Director Bubba Cunningham called it a “transformational moment in Carolina athletics,” praising the Williams family for their commitment to the values of integrity, education, and community. He noted that the funds would help maintain UNC’s legacy of excellence while evolving with the changing landscape of college sports.

 

The gift comes at a time when student-athlete support is more critical than ever. With the NCAA’s evolving policies around name, image, and likeness (NIL), as well as rising educational and training costs, universities are under increasing pressure to provide more holistic support to their athletes. Roy and Wanda Williams’ donation will ensure that UNC leads the way in balancing tradition with innovation.

 

Roy Williams coached the Tar Heels from 2003 to 2021, winning three national championships and earning a reputation as one of the most respected coaches in NCAA history. Even in retirement, Williams has remained active in the UNC community, often attending games and mentoring young players. His legacy now expands far beyond wins and trophies—it’s rooted in his lifelong dedication to the student-athletes he led.

 

As news of the $200 million gift spreads, it’s being hailed not only as a major boost for the Tar Heels but as an inspiring example of how individuals can make a lasting difference in the lives of young people. The Williamses’ generosity ensures that future generations of Tar Heels will continue to thrive—academically, athletically, and personally—for de

cades to come.