This after-five affair is a fundraiser intended to benefit the University's student-athletes; tickets are $125 per person, of which, $90 is tax deductible.

"I'm really looking forward to the event. Tuskegee University has a great history and tradition and I'm glad to be a part of it," Barkley said.

Barkley, a native of Leeds, Ala., and an Auburn University alumnus, was one of the National Basketball Association's most dominating power forwards. He earned eleven NBA All-Star Game appearances and was named the All-Star MVP in 1991. In 1993, he was voted the league's Most Valuable Player and during the NBA's 50th anniversary, named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History. Barkley also competed in the 1992 and 1996 Olympic Games and won two gold medals as a member of the United States' Dream Team. In 2006, Barkley was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2000, he retired as one of only four players in NBA history with 20,000 points, 10,000 rebounds and 4,000 assists.

Since retiring as a player, Barkley has had a successful career as an Emmy Award-winning commentator on basketball. He works with Turner Network Television (TNT) as a studio personality for its coverage of NBA games. In addition, Barkley has written several books and has also shown an interest in politics.

"This is an excellent opportunity to acknowledge the accomplishments of the student athletes of Tuskegee University while recognizing, not only a sports great, but an excellent Alabamian, who is so willing to give of himself for the benefit of others," said Anthony L. Holloman, Associate Vice President of University Advancement and Executive Director of TUNAA.

Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased by cash, check, money order or credit card by contacting Mr. Anthony Holloman at 334-727-8608.

Accommodations are available at the Kellogg Center on Friday and/or Saturday night for $79 per night, plus tax. Contact the Kellogg Center at 334-727-3000 or 800-949-6161. Mention the TUNAA Gala to get the rate until Aug. 1.