Domantas Sabonis Makes ‘Gonzaga Difference,’ Provides Substantial Donation to Basketball Programs

photo via Spokesman-Review’s Colin Mulvany

The not-so-well-kept secret is out. Three-time NBA All-Star forward/center Domantas Sabonis of the Sacramento Kings made a “transformative investment” to both the men’s and women’s basketball programs. While the exact amount isn’t disclosed, it is the largest ever made by a former player.

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Sabonis took part in a golf clinic put on by Bank of America for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Spokane the day before the official reveal on July 8, confirming that the Gonzaga Bulldogs legend was the mysterious donor.

The ceremony for the newly named Sabonis Family Strength & Conditioning Center next to the Steve Hertz Basketball Practice Facility inside the Volkar Center was quite heart-warming to watch with the Gonzaga coaching staff and what looked like 11 players with the upcoming team present.

He had a one-on-one moment with current redshirt senior forward Braden Huff, as the two suffered similar knee injuries this past season. Even the great Kevin Pangos, who was a senior point guard with a freshman Sabonis during the 2014-15 campaign, showed up in support.

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Sabonis spoke to the intimate crowd that included his wife, Shashana Rosen, and three children, Tiger, Eleven, and Tauras. Coach Mark Few said a few words about the Lithuanian’s impact on the city of Spokane, Washington, and the entire university as well.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the important role Gonzaga has played in my life and the opportunities the University has given me. My time here helped shape who I am, not only as a basketball player but as a person. My family and I are honored to make this gift because we believe in Gonzaga’s commitment to developing student-athletes on and off the court each and every day. We hope that every student who walks into this facility is reminded that with hard work and dedication, you can achieve your dreams. Gonzaga will always be home to us, so we’re proud to help invest in the next generation of Bulldogs.” – Domantas…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/domantas-sabonis-makes-gonzaga-difference-034051149.html

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Publish date : 2026-07-10 03:40:00

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