The June 6, 2025, approval of the House Settlement paved the way for NCAA Division I institutions to directly share additional financial benefits with student-athletes.
In order for St. Bonaventure to maintain its excellence within the Atlantic 10 Conference, it will require a significant increase in the overall support of our athletics program.
Despite the chaos that has dominated intercollegiate athletics in the past several years, our men’s basketball program has continued to thrive. In fact, St. Bonaventure is one of only three A-10 men’s basketball programs to register a top 100 NET ranking in four of the last five years.
Here at St. Bonaventure, we’ve always been able to “punch above our weight” and outperform our resources. That will remain critical to our success moving forward, yet our resources must grow in a manner that will provide our student-athletes a realistic opportunity to flourish in this new environment.
To that end, we have established the Basketball Excellence Funds. Contributions to these funds will assist the university in sharing additional benefits with Bonnies basketball student-athletes.
We appreciate our loyal Bonnies supporters who recognize the importance of enhanced philanthropy in this new era of college athletics and remain grateful to all those who have pledged their ongoing commitment.
As with all charitable gifts to St. Bonaventure, contributions to the Basketball Excellence Fund are tax deductible.
St. Bonaventure University has a long, proud tradition of basketball excellence. It’s part of our Bonnies DNA, a critical bonding element that helps tie our Brown and White family together so tightly. Together, we will continue to navigate the present challenges, capitalize on the new opportunities presented and maintain our steadfast commitment to the student-athletes who represent our great University and Bona Nation.
Thank you so much for your continued support of St. Bonaventure University and St. Bonaventure Athletics. Go Bonnies!
Bob Beretta '87
Vice President & Director of Athletics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Basketball Excellence Funds and the Sixth Man Club / Bonnies Athletic Fund?
The Basketball Excellence Fund was created specifically to assist the university as it directly shares additional financial benefits with men’s and women’s basketball student-athletes, which became permissible with the approval of the House Settlement on June 6, 2025. The Sixth Man Club and BAF remain critical to the Athletics Department because all contributions to those funds supplement our teams’ operating budgets and provide the dollars needed for areas such as nutrition, enhanced travel, training equipment or software, and many things that can make a real difference to our competitive opportunities.
What is the fundraising priority of the university?
The Basketball Excellence Fund, Sixth Man Club and BAF carry equal importance to the short and long-term success of the Bonnies. All three are crucial to our ability to remain competitive and provide our student-athletes with the best possible experience. As is the case with all philanthropy, consider your passion and interests as you consider your gift(s). St. Bonaventure is grateful for all the people who support us through philanthropy.
Are contributions to the Basketball Excellence Funds considered a charitable contribution?
Yes. Donors will receive a receipt from University Advancement. As with any charitable gift, please consult with your tax preparer or accountant for more specific information.
