NBA Hall-of-Famer Charles Barkley plans to give St. Mary's Academy in New Orleans East a generous donation. According to reports, Barkley promised $1 million. St. Mary’s Academy has a 157-year record of excellence in New Orleans. NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley is now recognizing the high-achieving, Catholic prep school for young black women in a big way. “We believe that our prayers have been answered,” said St. Mary’s President and Principal Pamela Rogers. According to published reports, Barkley plans to give St. Mary’s, operated by the Sisters of The Holy Family, a million dollars. In a story first reported by AL.com, the sports commentator pledged after watching 60 Minutes. The CBS News magazine featured two St. Mary graduates who independently achieved something thought to be impossible.