Lansing Sun

EAST LANSING, Mich. – Michigan State University alumni Kristen and Justin Ishbia have made a $10 million donation to MSU Athletics, reflecting their commitment to the Spartan community and its student-athletes. The gift will primarily support men's basketball and baseball programs.

Justin Ishbia, a 2000 graduate of the Eli Broad College of Business, is the founder and managing partner of Shore Capital Partners. He also holds ownership stakes in the Phoenix Suns, Mercury, and Nashville SC. Kristen graduated from the College of Education with a degree in Kinesiology in 2008.

The donation includes $8.5 million for men's basketball and baseball, along with $1.5 million in previous Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) payments. A portion will be allocated to upgrading baseball facilities, which will be renamed Jeff Ishbia Field in honor of Justin's father.

"As a lifelong baseball fan and former player, I know first-hand the lasting impression the game and a coach can have on an up-and-coming athlete," said Justin Ishbia. "Coach Jake Boss runs a fantastic program that has produced many successful players, and he and the team deserve to have best-in-class facilities that match the quality of the program."

"Spartan baseball is very thankful for the Ishbias' gift," said Michigan State baseball coach Jake Boss. "The facility upgrades that we will be able to make as a result of their gift will benefit student-athlete development for years to come."

In recognition of Coach Tom Izzo's impact on collegiate basketball players, including Justin's brother Mat Ishbia, part of the donation will go to the Men's Basketball Excellence Fund.

"Coach Izzo embodies the true meaning of mentorship and team-first mentality," said Justin Ishbia. "It has been a privilege to be in his orbit, and we are excited to see the Spartan's basketball team continue to flourish for years to come under his leadership."

"We are incredibly grateful for Justin and Kristen's generosity," said Michigan State men's basketball coach Tom Izzo. "The entire Ishbia Family has been so supportive to both MSU as a whole, and for me individually. Justin and Kristen and their kids will always be special to me. To be an elite program, you must have elite support from donors. This gift will positively impact our ability to continue to chase championships while also providing me greater motivation and incentive to keep our program at a championship level."

"Justin and Kristen are passionate alums and represent the core of who we are as Spartans," said MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D. "I appreciate their continued commitment to our athletics programs, and creating an environment where our student-athletes have everything they need to succeed as they proudly represent our university on national and international stages."

"Spartan athletics is deeply appreciative of this transformational gift from Justin and Kristen Ishbia," said Michigan State Vice President and Director of Athletics Alan Haller. "While college athletics continues to evolve at the national level, donor support has never been more critical to supporting the overall mission of our department. The generosity displayed with their gift will help provide a first-class experience for our student-athletes."

For more information on supporting MSU Athletics philanthropically, visit spartanfund.net or call (517) 432-1610.

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