Miami athletic director Blake James has made it clear that building an indoor practice facility is the top priority for the department. Funding for such projects often requires donations, and the Hurricanes are reportedly getting a sizable one from their new coach, Mark Richt.

Richt told boosters in Chicago that he is donating $1 million of his own money to help fund the project, according to Matt Porter of the Palm Beach Post. James would not confirm the amount of Richt's gift to the Post because it "had not been finalized," but the gesture is one that should only further cement Richt in the good graces of Miami fans.

Miami has not unveiled the plans for its indoor facility to the public but prospective donors and recruits have reportedly gotten a preview of what the much-needed upgrades. According to the Post, the school hopes to announce plans "in the coming weeks" for the project, which is estimated to cost more than $20 million.

Richt's arrival at Miami, where he played quarterback in college, has the Hurricanes' fan base energized. Donating money is good, but raising money is even better. Nothing will match the impact of making Miami an ACC title contender.

According to Porter, reactions to the news have been mixed.

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Mark Richt reportedly told boosters he's donating big bucks to Miami's indoor facility. USATSI