Former NCAA superstar invests in Gamecocks’ future, creating one of the largest athlete support funds in the NCAA
COLUMBIA, S.C. — In a groundbreaking moment for college athletics, former NCAA superstar and current NCAA President Charlie Baker has announced a $7 million personal donation to launch an NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) fund exclusively for the University of South Carolina women’s basketball program.
The fund—officially named the Gamecock Women’s Excellence Initiative—will immediately become one of the largest and most comprehensive NIL support platforms in the nation for women’s sports, placing South Carolina at the forefront of the evolving collegiate athletics landscape.
“This isn’t just a donation. It’s an investment in equity, opportunity, and the future of women’s college sports,” Baker said at a press conference held at Colonial Life Arena on Friday morning. “South Carolina’s women’s basketball team has consistently set the standard, and I want to make sure they have every resource they need to continue their legacy.”
Empowering Athletes On and Off the Court
The Gamecock Women’s Excellence Initiative will provide funding for brand development, financial literacy programs, social media management, and direct NIL opportunities for players. The fund will also partner with local and national brands to ensure Gamecock athletes can leverage their success and visibility in meaningful ways.
Head coach Dawn Staley, who has guided South Carolina to multiple national championships and elevated the program to elite status, called the donation “a seismic shift.”
“What Charlie’s doing is revolutionary. He’s not just talking about supporting women—he’s putting his money and influence behind them,” Staley said. “This is about empowering these young women to take control of their futures.”
A Personal Connection to the Game
Baker, a former collegiate basketball player at Harvard, has long been vocal about the need for balanced and fair NIL frameworks. Since taking over as NCAA President in 2023, he has pushed for better opportunities for student-athletes while emphasizing the importance of education, character, and community involvement.
His decision to target South Carolina for this landmark gift, he explained, was personal and strategic.
“Coach Staley and her program embody everything that’s right about college sports—passion, discipline, and community impact,” Baker said. “These athletes should be as marketable and celebrated as their male counterparts, and this fund is a step toward making that a reality.”
Setting a National Precedent
The $7 million fund places South Carolina’s women’s basketball program ahead of many Power Five schools in terms of structured NIL support for women’s sports. Experts believe the move will not only help South Carolina retain top talent, but also attract elite recruits who value both athletic excellence and economic opportunity.
“This will completely change the recruiting game,” said ESPN women’s basketball analyst Rebecca Lobo. “When you combine Coach Staley’s leadership with financial backing of this scale, you create a magnet for the best players in the country.”
The announcement has already sparked interest from other programs and athletes across the NCAA, with some suggesting that Baker’s gesture may inspire similar investments in women’s sports nationwide.
Players React With Gratitude and Excitement
Several current Gamecock players were present for the announcement, including All-American guard MiLaysia Fulwiley, who called the news “incredible.”
“Knowing someone like Charlie Baker believes in us like this—it means the world,” Fulwiley said. “This gives us a platform, not just to play, but to grow our brands and make a difference.”
Freshman forward Adhel Tac added, “It’s a sign that our hard work matters. We’re being seen.”
Looking Ahead
In addition to NIL support, the Gamecock Women’s Excellence Initiative will feature mentorship programs with former athletes and business leaders, funding for community service projects, and grants for postgraduate development.
“We’re building something sustainable,” Baker said. “This isn’t about flashy deals—it’s about empowering women for the long haul.”
With this donation, South Carolina cements its place as a leader not just in championships, but in shaping the future of women’s college sports.
