Built on Grit. Powered by Generosity.

When UNC Women’s Basketball student-athletes stepped into their newly renovated locker room for the first time in February, the reaction was immediate — excitement, pride and a deep sense of belonging was palpable.

For Gabi Fields, ’26, the impact is felt every day.

“Walking into our new locker room every day is a reminder that we are truly valued here,” Fields said. “It’s more than just a space — it shows the investment in us as student-athletes and as people. It makes you want to take even more pride in representing UNC because you know so many people believe in what we’re building.”

Made possible through a community of donors during the Fall 2025 Building Champions campaign, the renovation reflects a growing commitment to the student-athlete experience at UNC. What began as an item on a wish list quickly gained momentum, with a lead, matching gift donor helping jumpstart the crowdfunding effort and additional gifts combining to bring the $120,000 project to life.

The renovation transformed the existing Women’s Basketball locker room, replacing outdated storage and counter space with a more functional, first-class home for the team — designed with student-athletes at the center.

The space now features large, custom-designed lockers, enhanced lighting and technology improvements, bold program branding and a range of new amenities that support performance and well-being. A player’s lounge with TVs and seating offers a place for the team to connect and recharge, while a fueling station, recovery area and study space support daily routines off the court.

A speaker system, smart board, added electrical access and custom design elements — including a program logo wall and “Bear Grit” messaging — reinforce team identity and culture.

But the impact goes beyond aesthetics.

“The locker room is more than just a place to change — it’s where relationships grow, leadership develops, and a team’s culture comes to life,” UNC Women’s Basketball Head Coach Kristen Mattio said.

“Our locker room has changed the way we prepare and connect as a team,” said senior Tatum West. “It’s a place where we can lock in, fuel up and be together — and that carries over onto the court. It gives us a sense of pride and confidence every time we step in there, knowing we have everything we need to compete at a high level.”

The transformation was a true team effort. Student-athletes were actively involved in shaping the space — contributing ideas, embracing temporary disruption and investing their own sweat equity throughout the process. For nearly two months, the team operated out of a temporary locker room, navigating the challenges of the season in anticipation that something special was being built.

That sense of shared investment — from players, coaches, administration, campus partners and donors — is part of what makes the space so meaningful. The project was completed in-house, with UNC staff working together on everything from layout to finishes, creating a locker room that reflects function, identity and Bear pride.

This project is part of a broader vision championed during President Andy Feinstein’s tenure — one that recognizes athletics as a vital part of the university experience. A longtime supporter of Bears Athletics, Feinstein has emphasized the importance of investing in spaces that elevate both performance and pride.

Donor-supported projects like the Empower Center and Nottingham Field lighting upgrades — coming this fall — reflect that same commitment, enhancing facilities across campus and strengthening UNC’s ability to recruit, retain and support student-athletes at the highest level.

“We could not have done this without our donors — it speaks volumes about their belief in women’s basketball and the momentum of our program.” – Kristen Mattio, UNC Women’s Basketball head coach

The locker room renovation also underscores the power of collective, community-driven giving. Through Building Champions, alumni, fans and supporters rally behind projects that directly impact Bear programs. Each gift plays a role in turning dreams into reality — creating opportunities that inspire pride and performance.

“We’re building an environment where elite players want to come — athletically, academically and for their personal growth,” Mattio said.

For the female student-athletes who use it every day, the new locker room is more than an upgrade. It’s a reflection of belief — in their potential, their experience and their future — a testament to what can be built through community, generosity and grit.

Save the date: Building Champions – Oct. 6-9, 2026