Alexis Ohanian boosts Virginia women's basketball with generous donation

In the United States, Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and husband to tennis star Serena Williams, has pledged a significant financial contribution to the Virginia women's basketball program, marking the largest donation in the program's history. While the specific amount of the donation has not been disclosed, it is noted for being a landmark shift in supporting women's athletics. This donation is expected to enhance recruitment efforts and allow the program to compete at an elite level, reminiscent of its past successes, notably during the late 1980s and 1990s under coach Debbie Ryan when the team made 20 consecutive NCAA tournament appearances. Ohanian has been a long-time advocate for women's sports and has previously invested in Angel City FC, a women's soccer team. He expressed his desire to elevate women's athletic programs to attract top talent and improve training and facilities, signifying a shift towards recognizing women's sports as deserving of substantial investment rather than mere charity. This perspective stems from his observations of past inequities in support between men's and women's sports, specifically citing disparities in facilities during the NCAA tournaments. Further adding to this movement, Ohanian highlighted the growth of interest in women's sports, as evidenced by increasing social media engagement. His commitment to the Virginia basketball program, as shared with ESPN, reflects a broader trend of increasing financial investment in women’s college athletics. Following this donation, the athletic director and coaching staff expressed gratitude, emphasizing its potential to reshape the women's basketball landscape at Virginia and improve their standing in collegiate competition. The importance of this donation goes beyond numbers; it symbolizes a changing narrative in women's sports. Coaches and athletes alike see this funding as an opportunity to rebuild and reinvigorate a once-prestigious program that can inspire future generations of female athletes. It's a significant step forward in addressing the historical under-funding and restrictions faced by women in athletics, aligning with Ohanian's mission to support equitable investment in all sports.