J Batt: Greg Williams' $401 million donation to Michigan State will serve as 'rocket fuel' for Spartan sports

by: Jim Comparoni9 hours agoJimComparoni

williams gusk batt — Greg Williams, left, talks with MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz, center, and MSU Athletic Director J Batt after an event announcing Williams' $401 million donation to the university on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, at the Breslin Center in East Lansing. | Photo by Nick King | USA Today Network

EAST LANSING, Mich. - What began as a neighborhood acquaintanceship between an inquisitive Tom Izzo and an industrious set of neighbors has blossomed into a massively valuable philanthropic relationship for Michigan State University and Spartan athletics. On Friday at Breslin Center, Michigan State donors Greg and Dawn Williams announced a $401 million commitment to the university, with $390 million earmarked for Spartan athletics as part of the newly-launched FOR SPARTA fund raising campaign. It is the largest single commitment in Michigan State history and one of the largest single amounts in college sports history. (MORE inside SpartanMag. Join SpartanMag now - 50% off for the year - and enjoy a complimentary year of The Athletic included with your membership.)