Tempe, AZ — In a momentous show of Sun Devil pride and an enduring legacy of leadership, former Arizona State University (ASU) Women’s Basketball Coach Charli Turner Thorne has made a historic $15 million donation to support the construction of a new stadium for the women’s basketball program under current head coach Natasha Adair.
This extraordinary gift marks the largest ever from a former coach to ASU athletics and one of the most significant contributions to women’s collegiate sports facilities nationwide. Turner Thorne, who served as head coach for 25 seasons before retiring in 2022, left an indelible mark on the program, becoming the winningest coach in Sun Devil Women’s Basketball history. Her legacy now expands far beyond the court as she champions the next chapter of the program she helped elevate.
“Arizona State pride lives within me wherever I go,” Turner Thorne said during the announcement ceremony. “This university gave me so much—lifelong relationships, incredible opportunities, and the chance to mentor hundreds of extraordinary women. Now, it’s time to give back in a way that secures a future of excellence for our athletes.”
The new stadium, which will be named in honor of Turner Thorne, promises state-of-the-art training facilities, expanded seating, fan engagement zones, and a design rooted in sustainability. It is envisioned as a game-changer for recruiting and community engagement, signaling ASU’s ongoing investment in women’s athletics.
Natasha Adair, who took the reins of the program in 2022, expressed deep gratitude for the transformational gift. “Coach Charli built this foundation. Her generosity ensures that the next generation of Sun Devils has the tools, resources, and environment to thrive. It’s more than a building—it’s a promise to our student-athletes and to women’s sports.”
Turner Thorne’s donation sends a powerful message: leadership, legacy, and loyalty can build more than championships—they can build a future.
