In an extraordinary act of generosity, former Texas Tech basketball star Jarrett Culver has given his alma mater a monumental $9.5 million bonus and sponsorship gift, sending waves of excitement through the Red Raider community. The donation, one of the largest ever by a former student-athlete to Texas Tech Athletics, underscores Culver’s deep appreciation for the program that helped shape his career and his commitment to ensuring its future success.
Culver, a Lubbock native who rose to stardom during his two seasons with the Red Raiders, has always been a beloved figure in Texas Tech basketball history. His pivotal role in leading the team to its first-ever NCAA Championship game in 2019 cemented his legacy as one of the program’s all-time greats. Now, years after being selected as the sixth overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, Culver is giving back in a way that will have a lasting impact on the university and its athletes.
The $9.5 million donation is set to bolster Texas Tech Athletics in multiple ways, providing critical funding for facility upgrades, scholarships, and athlete development programs. Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt hailed the gift as a “game-changer” for the department, emphasizing how it will enhance the student-athlete experience and strengthen the Red Raiders’ competitive edge in the Big 12 and beyond.
“Jarrett’s contribution is a testament to his love for Texas Tech and his belief in what we are building here,” Hocutt said. “This level of support from one of our own speaks volumes about the culture of this program and the lifelong connection our athletes have with this university.”
While the exact allocation of funds has yet to be fully detailed, insiders suggest a significant portion will go toward modernizing the basketball training facilities, ensuring that future Red Raiders have access to top-tier resources. Additionally, the gift will support academic initiatives, ensuring that student-athletes excel both on the court and in the classroom.
Jarrett Culver’s story is one of hometown pride and relentless determination. Growing up in Lubbock, he dreamed of playing for Texas Tech long before he became a McDonald’s All-American at Coronado High School. Under the guidance of head coach Chris Beard, Culver developed into a consensus All-American and the Big 12 Player of the Year during his sophomore season. His leadership and clutch performances during the 2019 NCAA Tournament, including a 19-point outing in the Final Four against Michigan State, endeared him to Red Raider fans forever.
Though his NBA career has seen its share of challenges, including stints with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, and Memphis Grizzlies, Culver has remained a proud ambassador for Texas Tech. His decision to invest such a substantial sum back into the program reflects his gratitude for the foundation it provided him—both as an athlete and as a person.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without Texas Tech,” Culver said in a statement. “The coaches, the fans, and this community believed in me before anyone else did. This is my way of saying thank you and making sure the next generation of Red Raiders has even more opportunities than I did.”
Major donations from former athletes often serve as catalysts for further investment, and Culver’s gift is expected to inspire others to contribute to Texas Tech Athletics. In recent years, the program has seen increased support from alumni and donors, fueling major projects such as the renovation of Jones AT&T Stadium and the construction of the Sports Performance Center. Culver’s $9.5 million pledge reinforces the growing trend of former players giving back, setting a powerful example for current and future Red Raiders.
Beyond the financial impact, Culver’s gesture sends a strong message about loyalty and the importance of nurturing relationships with former players. In an era where college athletics is rapidly evolving with Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and conference realignment, maintaining a strong connection with alumni is more crucial than ever. Texas Tech’s ability to foster such deep bonds with its athletes—even after they move on to professional careers—speaks to the program’s family-oriented culture.
Under head coach Grant McCasland, Texas Tech basketball is entering a new era, and Culver’s donation provides a significant boost to the program’s momentum. With the Red Raiders looking to reclaim their status as a perennial NCAA Tournament contender, enhanced facilities and resources will play a key role in recruiting top talent.
McCasland, who took over in 2023, has already made strides in rebuilding the roster and instilling a competitive mindset. Now, with Culver’s financial backing, the program can accelerate its growth, ensuring that Texas Tech remains a destination for elite players.
“This is the kind of support that transforms a program,” McCasland said. “Jarrett’s belief in us energizes everyone—players, coaches, and fans alike. We’re going to make sure this investment pays off by continuing to build something special here.”
Jarrett Culver’s legacy at Texas Tech was already secure thanks to his on-court heroics, but his $9.5 million gift ensures that his impact will be felt for decades to come. Whether through upgraded facilities, increased scholarships, or enhanced support for student-athletes, his generosity will help shape the future of Red Raider basketball.
For fans, Culver’s donation is a reminder of what makes college sports so special—the enduring bond between a player and his school. Even as he continues his professional career, his heart remains in Lubbock, and his commitment to Texas Tech sets a standard for others to follow.
As the Red Raiders celebrate this historic gift, one thing is clear: Jarrett Culver’s story is far from over, and neither is Texas Tech’s rise. With this monumental contribution, the program has nine million reasons—and then some—to rejoice. The best is yet to come.
