NEWS FLASH: In a heartwarming announcement that resonated across the college basketball landscape and beyond, Auburn Head Men’s Basketball Coach Bruce Pearl has been named the 2025 College Basketball Philanthropy Icon. This prestigious recognition celebrates not only his generous spirit but also his extensive humanitarian efforts and the life-changing influence he has exerted through a multitude of amazing initiatives. The award ceremony, set to take place at the Mike Slive Foundation’s Blue Shoe Ball on Thursday, September 4, 2025, in Birmingham, Alabama, will highlight a career marked as much by his compassion off the court as by his fiery intensity on it.
Coach Pearl’s philanthropic endeavors are not new; they are deeply ingrained in his personal philosophy and have grown significantly throughout his coaching journey. His dedication to giving back has touched countless lives, from battling prostate cancer to advocating for global human rights and fostering spiritual growth among his players.
One of the most prominent pillars of Bruce Pearl’s humanitarian work is his unwavering commitment to cancer awareness and prevention. His connection to this cause is deeply personal and long-standing.
- The Mike Slive Foundation: Pearl is the honoree for the 2025 Blue Shoe Ball, an event supporting the Mike Slive Foundation for Prostate Cancer Research. Mike Slive, the late SEC Commissioner, was a close friend and respected figure for Pearl, who tragically succumbed to prostate cancer. Pearl has been instrumental in raising awareness and funds for the foundation, working tirelessly to honor Slive’s legacy. He recognizes the critical importance of early detection and research funding in the fight against this disease.
- The AUTLIVE Program: Pearl’s dedication to cancer awareness predates his time at Auburn. In 2009, while coaching at Tennessee, he and his staff founded the “OUTLIVE” program in recognition of former Volunteer standout Chris Lofton, who successfully battled testicular cancer. Upon arriving at Auburn, Pearl transitioned this initiative into the highly successful “AUTLIVE” game, an annual event where the Auburn family rallies to support cancer awareness. For the past six years, the Mike Slive Foundation has offered free PSA blood test screenings at the AUTLIVE game, directly contributing to early diagnoses and, in many cases, saving lives. Pearl himself highlighted the importance of these screenings not just for men over 40, but for all young men to be aware of their family history and risk factors. His public advocacy around this cause has undoubtedly pushed many individuals to get tested and take proactive steps for their health.
Beyond health initiatives, Bruce Pearl has emerged as a vocal and courageous advocate for human rights, particularly concerning the conflict in the Middle East and the plight of the Jewish people. This aspect of his philanthropy is deeply rooted in his Jewish identity and faith.
- Speaking Out During March Madness: In a move that drew significant attention and widespread admiration (and some criticism), Pearl used the massive platform of the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament to publicly call for the release of hostages held in Gaza, specifically mentioning Idan Alexander, the only American believed to still be alive and held captive by Hamas. This brave stance, taken during one of the most visible sporting events in the United States, underscored his commitment to his principles and his willingness to use his voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. His actions even prompted a thank-you call from Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
- US-Israel Education Association (USIEA) and Yes! Israel Project: Pearl serves as the Chairman of the Board of the US-Israel Education Association (USIEA) and actively participates in initiatives like the Yes! Israel Project. Their mission is to build stronger and more positive relationships between the United States and Israel by bringing US congressional leaders to Israel. This direct engagement aims to foster understanding, promote peace, and ensure continued support for Israel’s security and prosperity. He has openly stated his belief that “silence is complicity” when it comes to human suffering and injustice.
- Support for Jewish Communities: Pearl has been a staunch opponent of antisemitism, speaking out against its rise and actively supporting Jewish students and communities. He co-founded and was the first president of the Jewish Coaches Association in 2005, a group dedicated to mentoring and advocating for Jewish coaches. He has also engaged in community service, packing humanitarian aid boxes for Israeli children and soldiers with the Auburn campus Hillel chapter and his players. His willingness to “wear his faith on his sleeve” and encourage his players to embrace their own beliefs has fostered an environment of mutual respect and spiritual growth within his program.
Bruce Pearl’s impact extends far beyond major initiatives; it resonates in the daily lives of his players and the broader Auburn community. His “life-changing influence” is a direct result of his personal approach and genuine care.
- Fostering Faith and Character: Pearl actively encourages spiritual development among his players, regardless of their background. His team frequently engages in Bible studies and mentorship, and players have publicly credited him with strengthening their faith and character. He creates an environment where players feel comfortable discussing their beliefs and growing as individuals. This emphasis on holistic development, beyond just basketball skills, has left a lasting impact on many.
- Community Engagement: Pearl is known for being deeply integrated into the Auburn community. Whether he’s serving pizza to fans camping out before a big game, speaking to student organizations, or participating in local charity drives like United Way campaigns (he personally donated $10,000 to kick off a $36.5 million campaign in 2022), he consistently demonstrates a hands-on commitment to service. This active participation builds strong bonds and inspires others to give back.
- Mentorship and Advocacy for Future Generations: Through his work with the Jewish Coaches Association, Pearl actively mentors younger coaches, helping them navigate the profession and achieve success. He also uses his platform to highlight opportunities for young Israeli basketball players to play college ball in the US, leveraging the NIL program to help them achieve financial stability while pursuing an education.
- Leadership and Resilience: Pearl’s own career has had its share of challenges, including a brief NCAA suspension. However, he has consistently used these experiences as teachable moments, emphasizing resilience, accountability, and the importance of learning from failure. This authentic approach inspires his players to embrace challenges and grow from adversity.
In essence, Bruce Pearl embodies the spirit of a true philanthropy icon. His generosity is not merely financial; it’s a generosity of spirit, time, and unwavering advocacy. Through his courageous public stands, his tireless work with charitable foundations, and his profound personal impact on the lives of his players and community, he has truly demonstrated a life-changing influence that extends far beyond the basketball court. The 2025 College Basketball Philanthropy Icon award is a fitting tribute to a man who truly understands that success is not just measured in wins and losses, but in the positive mark one leaves on the world.
