Baton Rouge, LA – May 17, 2025 In a groundbreaking moment for LSU athletics and women’s collegiate sports nationwide, former LSU women’s basketball star and coaching legend Pokey Chatman has donated the full $15 million needed to build a brand-new stadium for the LSU women’s basketball program. The historic gesture marks one of the largest individual contributions in LSU sports history and is a powerful testament to Chatman’s enduring legacy and deep connection to the university.
With emotion in her voice and pride in her heart, Chatman addressed a packed crowd at the LSU Alumni Center Friday morning. “LSU is where I found my purpose, my strength, and my future. No matter where life has taken me—from coaching on the sidelines of the SEC to the WNBA and overseas—LSU pride lives within me wherever I go,” she said to thunderous applause. “This is my way of giving back and investing in the women who will one day wear the jersey I once did.”
The new facility, to be named The Pokey Chatman Women’s Basketball Arena, will feature state-of-the-art training spaces, locker rooms, academic support centers, a sports medicine complex, and a seating capacity of 8,500 fans. Construction is expected to begin this fall, with a projected completion date in early 2027.
Chatman’s donation comes at a pivotal time for women’s sports, as collegiate programs across the nation continue to see increased viewership, NIL opportunities, and national investment. LSU’s women’s basketball team has surged in popularity in recent years, bolstered by championship-level performances and high-profile athletes. This new stadium is set to further elevate the program’s stature, offering players world-class facilities and fans an electrifying new home.
LSU President William F. Tate IV praised Chatman’s commitment, calling the donation a “transformational moment” for the university and women’s athletics. “Pokey Chatman is more than a champion on the court—she’s a visionary leader. Her generosity will inspire generations of Tigers, and this arena will stand as a testament to her extraordinary life and legacy.”
Athletic Director Scott Woodward echoed the sentiment, noting that Chatman’s gift will “redefine what’s possible for LSU women’s basketball.” He added, “This isn’t just a building—it’s a launching pad for greatness. Pokey is giving our athletes the tools, resources, and inspiration to dream bigger than ever before.”
Pokey Chatman’s story is already the stuff of LSU legend. A standout point guard for the Tigers from 1987 to 1991, she remains among the school’s all-time leaders in assists and steals. After a decorated playing career, she transitioned into coaching and led the Lady Tigers to multiple NCAA tournament appearances and Final Four runs during her tenure from 2004 to 2007. Her coaching career later extended to the WNBA and international teams, where she earned global respect for her basketball acumen and leadership.
Chatman, now 55, credits LSU with shaping her career and character. “I walked onto this campus as a teenager with a dream and left with a purpose,” she reflected. “That dream came true, and now it’s time to make sure others have the same shot—only better.”
The gift also highlights the growing momentum behind private support for women’s athletics. Experts say Chatman’s contribution may set a precedent and encourage other former athletes, coaches, and alumni to invest deeply in the future of women’s sports programs.
Current LSU women’s basketball head coach Kim Mulkey, who led the team to a national title in 2023, said the team is “overwhelmed with gratitude” and called Chatman a “trailblazer whose impact will echo for generations.”
“This gift isn’t about bricks and seats—it’s about belief,” Mulkey said. “Belief in the power of women, in the value of sports, and in the tradition that Pokey helped build right here at LSU.”
Students and fans also reacted enthusiastically to the announcement, with hashtags like #ThankYouPokey and #LSUForever trending across social media platforms.
As she concluded her remarks, Chatman left the crowd with a message that will surely resonate far beyond Baton Rouge: “We play for more than championships. We play for legacy. And this—this is how we win together.”
Construction fencing will go up on the edge of campus this summer, but the foundation of this new arena has already been laid—in loyalty, generosity, and Tiger pride.
