HONOLULU - Former University of Hawai‘i men’s basketball player Anthony Carter, 26, has established an endowment fund to support UH men’s basketball scholarships. The Anthony “A.C.” Carter Men’s Basketball Endowed Scholarship Fund was established with $100,000 from the standout Miami Heat player.
A 6’1” point guard, Carter is the definition of an NBA “Cinderella story.” A native of Atlanta, Ga., “A.C.” became one of the best players ever to play at UH. In 1998, he became the first ever Hawai‘i player to be chosen as a finalist for the John R. Wooden award. Carter played two seasons for UH (1996-’98), helping the team to consecutive appearances in the National Invitational Tournament.
After signing a multi-million dollar contract with the Miami Heat prior to the start of the 2001-2002 season, Carter pledged to support the UH Athletic Department. His philanthropic gift plays a major part in the funding of the education of future UH student-athletes. Since he completed his career at UH, Carter has maintained a strong relationship with both the school and the state of Hawai‘i. Carter returns to the Islands regularly, for personal visits as well as for appearances at basketball camps for Hawai‘i youth.
“I just wanted to find a way to show my appreciation for all of the opportunities UH gave to me. I know that I wouldn’t be living my dream today if it weren’t for the support of my coaches, the University and all of the fans,” said Carter. “I am happy to be able to make a difference in the lives of some very deserving student-athletes.”
Riley Wallace, UH Men’s Basketball Coach stated: “When A.C. left the University of Hawai‘i, he had already distinguished himself as a leader on the basketball court. Now he has proven himself to be a leader off the court as well. I think it’s a testament to his character that he, at his young age, is already willing to give back and help others reach for the dream that he has fulfilled. That’s the mark of a truly mature individual, and I’m proud to know him.”
Bill Duffy, President of BDA Sports Management and Carter’s agent, added: “A.C.’s story is remarkable, and illustrates the power of hard work and determination. He recognizes that he can now help others to accomplish their goals. It is very much consistent with A.C.’s character to do something like this.”
Evan S. Dobelle, President of the University of Hawai‘i pointed to Carter’s generosity as an example. “I didn’t get to see AC playing in a Rainbows uniform. But I know how much he meant to this community – and now I see how much this community meant to him. A.C. will always be part of the University family,” said Dobelle, “and we rely on our friends to give us the margin of excellence. With his support, A.C. is ensuring that the ’Bows who follow in his footsteps will be able to give UH the same extraordinary effort that he did.”
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