Indiana Hoosiers Star guard Myles Rice, in a remarkable display of his generosity, has donated $20 million to an orphanage, solidifying his heritage both on and off the court, securing a..
In an extraordinary act of generosity that has stunned the college basketball world and beyond, Indiana Hoosiers star guard Myles Rice has donated a staggering $20 million to a national network of orphanages, aiming to improve the lives of thousands of children across the country. The contribution, one of the largest charitable gifts ever made by an active college athlete, marks a defining moment not only in Rice’s already inspiring journey but also in the evolution of student-athlete philanthropy.
Rice, 21, has become a household name in NCAA basketball circles for his leadership on the court, his tenacity in the face of personal adversity, and now, for his profound commitment to social impact. The donation will go toward the construction of new educational facilities, mental health centers, and expanded living quarters in several children’s homes throughout the Midwest and Southeast, with a flagship center to be established in his home state of Georgia.
“More Than Basketball”
“This is about more than basketball,” Rice said during a press conference held at the IU Athletics Complex on Tuesday afternoon. “I’ve been blessed with a platform, and I’ve always believed that what you do off the court matters just as much—if not more—than what you do on it. These kids deserve love, opportunity, and a chance at a future. If I can help make that happen, then I’m doing something worthwhile.”
The initiative, titled “Rise with Rice,” will also include mentorship programs, scholarship funds, and career readiness workshops for children aging out of the foster care system. According to the press release issued by Rice’s foundation, the program was inspired by his mother, who spent years working as a social worker and counselor for displaced youth.
From Survivor to Servant-Leader
Myles Rice’s journey has already been marked by tremendous personal courage. Diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2022, Rice underwent chemotherapy and made a full recovery before transferring to Indiana, where he emerged as both a fan favorite and a team leader. His story has inspired millions—now, with this unprecedented donation, he is setting a new standard for what it means to be a student-athlete.
“He’s the kind of person you root for no matter what,” said Indiana head coach Mike Woodson. “This is who Myles is—selfless, passionate, driven. What he’s done here goes beyond sports. It’s legacy stuff.”
A Ripple Through College Sports
Rice’s donation is already sparking conversations about the future of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities and how athletes can leverage their platforms to effect meaningful change. Experts are calling the move a “landmark moment” that may encourage more college athletes to align their branding and earnings with social causes.
“He’s showing that young athletes are not just entertainers—they’re leaders, visionaries, and agents of change,” said Dr. Ayesha Caldwell, a sports philanthropy scholar at the University of Southern California. “Rice’s gift will inspire a generation.”
Looking Ahead
While Rice has not yet announced whether he will enter the 2025 NBA Draft, his legacy in Indiana—and now far beyond it—is secure. Regardless of where basketball takes him next, Myles Rice has proven himself a champion in every sense of the word.
“This is just the beginning,” he said, smiling as he wrapped up his speech. “There’s so much more to be done—and I’m ready for it.”