North Carolina former professional player James Worthy has offered $1.2 million for…James Worthy, the former University of North Carolina basketball star and NBA Hall of Famer, has once again demonstrated his commitment to giving back by offering $1.2 million in support of a new community and youth development initiative. The announcement, made during a ceremony in Chapel Hill this week, underscores Worthy’s enduring connection to his alma mater and his dedication to uplifting future generations.
Worthy, best known as “Big Game James” for his clutch performances with the Tar Heels and later the Los Angeles Lakers, explained that his decision to make the donation stems from a desire to give back to the very community that helped shape him. “North Carolina gave me a foundation for everything I achieved,” Worthy said. “This $1.2 million is an investment in kids who might not otherwise have the resources or opportunities. It’s about creating spaces where dreams can grow, whether that’s in classrooms, on basketball courts, or within the community.”
The $1.2 million pledge will be directed toward building and improving facilities that combine education and athletics. Plans include the renovation of local gyms, the creation of scholarship funds, and after-school programs designed to give young people access to mentorship and guidance. The initiative is particularly focused on under-resourced neighborhoods in North Carolina, where Worthy hopes his contribution will inspire hope and opportunity.
University and community leaders praised the gesture, describing it as both timely and transformative. “James Worthy’s legacy goes beyond basketball,” said UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz. “This pledge represents his belief in the next generation of leaders, scholars, and athletes. He’s showing that being a Tar Heel is not just about what you accomplish on the court, but also about what you give back to the world.”
Former teammates and colleagues echoed that sentiment. Magic Johnson, Worthy’s longtime Lakers teammate, shared on social media: “Proud of my brother James Worthy. He was always about winning on the court, but what makes him even greater is how much he gives off the court. $1.2 million is life-changing for so many kids.”
For the North Carolina basketball faithful, Worthy’s generosity resonates deeply. Nearly four decades after his heroic performance in the 1982 NCAA championship game, when he led the Tar Heels to victory over Georgetown, Worthy’s name still carries weight in Chapel Hill. Now, his financial commitment ensures that his impact extends far beyond banners and trophies.
The initiative will also establish mentorship programs pairing current Tar Heel student-athletes with local youth, bridging the gap between the university and surrounding communities. Organizers believe this will create lasting relationships and inspire young people to pursue both academic and athletic excellence.
For Worthy, the donation is less about recognition and more about responsibility. “I’ve been blessed,” he said. “I’ve had a career I never dreamed possible, but all of it started with the support I had here in North Carolina. This is my way of making sure the next generation knows they are seen, valued, and capable of greatness.”
As the project takes shape, one thing is clear: James Worthy’s legacy is not only measured by championships and accolades, but by his unwavering commitment to giving back to the community that raised him. His $1.2 million pledge will ensure his name continues to inspire — both on the court and far beyond it.
Leave a Reply