I met with George Blaha recently to interview him about the medical ordeal he’s been through recently. Instead, he began our conversation by asking all about me.

EAST LANSING, Mich. – Michigan State University athletics received millions of dollars in a major donation from one of its winningest basketball players, on and off the court. Mat Ishbia -- the CEO of United Wholesale Mortgage, 1998 Spartan basketball walk-on and 2000 NCAA champion -- recently donated $32 million to his alma mater. Twenty million dollars of the donation will help change the face of Michigan State, expanding the football center and improving the auditorium, locker rooms and dining halls. “This is not only a historic day but a tear-jerking, proud day for me,” said MSU basketball coach Tom Izzo. Ishbia also made a donation to the Spartan Life Fund, which helps MSU alumni connect with companies looking for employees.