Houston Rockets forward Robert Covington is giving back to his alma mater, Tennessee State University, in a big way. The former Tigers forward has donated $1 million to help the school build a practice facility for the men's and women's basketball teams.
“I want to thank the city of Nashville for embracing me, Coach Brian 'Penny' Collins, Dr. Mikki Allen, President Glover and the University for giving me the opportunity to do something special like this,” the 2013 graduate said.
“I love my alma mater, I’m not donating a new practice facility for the recognition or because I need to – I am doing it because I truly want to. I know what the school didn’t have when I was here as a student and I want future generations of kids to have the best resources available to them, to build their futures both on and off the court. I want them to step on this campus and feel like their dreams can come true here, because mine really did.”
Covington is one of only two active NBA players to graduate from a historically Black college or university. Covington played four seasons for the Tigers in the Ohio Valley Conference. While there, he averaged 14.8 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. He also hot an impressive 42% from three-point range 80% from the free throw line.
In the NBA, Covington has exceeded expectations by playing nearly a decade in the NBA. He has averaged nearly 13 points, six rebounds and two assistants during his nine-year career. He also earned All-NBA defensive team honors in 2018.
“We are extremely proud of Mr. Robert Covington’s success and are grateful for his contributions to the University,” Tennessee State University President Glenda Glover said.
“Most importantly, his success on and off the court speaks volumes about the caliber of students TSU and other HBCUs produce. We thank him, his family and the Allergic To Failure Foundation for this generous gift.”
Construction on the practice facility will begin in late spring 2021.
Photo: Getty Images