NORMAN — Brian and Kim Kimrey of Bartlesville have committed a $20 million gift to OU’s baseball and football programs, announced Monday. This pledge is the largest single commitment in the programs’ history, increasing their total contributions to $25.1 million.
The Kimreys donated $10 million each to baseball and football. Their third gift to OU baseball raises their support for stadium upgrades to over $15 million.
The football donation will fund future enhancements to the Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium.
“We cannot express enough gratitude to Brian and Kim for their unwavering faith in and support of OU athletics,” said OU athletic director Joe Castiglione. “This gift not only showcases their selflessness but also highlights the significance of investing in people and programs, a key factor in our sustained success across the department. The size of this gift is undoubtedly significant, and we’re thrilled for what it means for the future of OU baseball and the possibilities it presents for potential future football facility projects.”
This eight-figure donation is the fifth in OU athletics history.
The gift towards the baseball stadium project follows head coach Skip Johnson’s contract extension through 2029, after reportedly considering the Texas A&M head coaching job.
Johnson has consistently advocated for baseball facility upgrades during his tenure at OU.
“We are immensely grateful to Brian and Kim for their powerful commitment to our baseball program,” Johnson said. “The Kimreys have been outstanding, consistent supporters of our program for several years, and we appreciate their continued investment in our student-athletes. This gift boosts the momentum around our program as we enter the best conference in college baseball and encourages others to invest in these young men and the University of Oklahoma.”
Sooners head football coach Brent Venables also commented on the news Monday.
“Our program is beyond thankful for this amazing gift from the Kimrey family. There’s no doubt about it — Brian and Kim are ‘all in.’ This donation exemplifies their gracious support and genuine love of OU athletics, and comes at an important time as we embark on our exciting new journey as a member of the SEC. Their astounding generosity will help us continue to compete at the highest level.”
Johnson, who became head coach at OU in 2018, has led the Sooners to four NCAA Tournament appearances and a runner-up finish to Mississippi in the 2022 College World Series championship series.
