CRIMSON AND BLUE MAKE GREEN: THE IMPACT OF DAVID G. BOOTH ON KU ATHLETICS
Gunnar Galloway - August 31, 2025
When thinking of the University of Kansas, football is not often the first thing that comes to mind. With a basketball rich history consisting of 23 Elite Eight appearances, 16 Final Fours, and four NCAA championships under the Jayhawks' belt, it seems football is somewhat overshadowed.
2023, being the latest year showing promise in the team with a record of 9-4, the Jayhawks ended the next year 5-7, setting their hopes high on returning the next year as a bigger and better team.
Days before the Jayhawks' 2025 season opener, the University of Kansas announced a historic donation by David G. Booth.
A $300 million gift to Kansas Athletics immediately becomes one of the single largest donation in college athletics.
Booth, being a KU alum, feels that the sports the university hosts shouldn't be limited to the students and faculty, but anyone who enjoys the team and wants to cheer the Jayhawks on. That being the case, along with a focused amount of the donation pushed toward the football team, Booth plans to build accessibility around the university, including hotels, student living, improved parking, etc.
Arriving on the day of kickoff, the fans, the team, and the enemy experienced gameday like never before in Lawrence as a new and improved stadium lay glowing crimson and blue, packed to the brim. The stadium, named “David Booth Memorial Stadium,” hosted the Fresno State Bulldogs in a season opener that only a home team starting the season off can dream of.
31-7, the Jayhawks left the Bulldogs, securing an electric win in the new stadium, setting their 1-0 sights on the upcoming week again in Lawrence. As the Jayhawks kick off again, the story remains similar, with an electric environment and a solid team, the Wagner Seahawks left disappointed at a 46-7 loss.
The Jayhawks are now two games played and two games won, looking put-together at the helm of sixth-year quarterback Jalon Daniels. But the rest is yet to come. Booth’s donation shows more impact than just one season; it shows a cannon of potential for Kansas Athletics. From the team to the city, college football fans are going to see some changes in Lawrence. The school, once known for its basketball, is ready to make you remember its football too.
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