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Charles Barkley has it written out in his will that he’ll send $5 million to his alma mater, Auburn, upon his passing. Last week, he announced that he’d be making a major change to that eventual gift.
Following the most recent Supreme Court decision saying race can no longer be used as criterion for college admission, Barkley states that the $5 million will now go towards scholarships for future Black students.
The significant adjustment is the former NBA star’s way of “trying to make sure Auburn stays diverse.”
“I love Auburn,” he added. “I’ve actually changed [the donation] to be used for kids from poor homes. But after that ruling yesterday, my phone was blowing up. I was talking to my friends and said, ‘I need to make sure Black folks always have a place at Auburn.’ So, I’m going to change my will and make it exclusive for Black students—all $5 million. It’s just, for me, the right thing to do. I always want to make sure that Auburn’s diverse.”
Many online have reacted to Charles Barkley’s decision. There is an overwhelming support for the former Tiger’s bequest change.
Ryan Clark, who played his college football at LSU, gave his thoughts on the news.
Barkley is so dope!!
— Ryan Clark (@Realrclark25) July 1, 2023
Fans agreed.
The person wrote, “Chuck is the man,” while another said, “A common Chuck W.”
Many noted that Barkley can do whatever he pleases with his donation as it’s money earned through a successful basketball and broadcasting career.
Charles Barkley has always been one to rep the Auburn Tigers, showing support of the football and basketball programs on an annual basis. It’s clear he enjoyed his time on the Plains, and this is his way of continuing to better the university.