FROM MANSION TO MISSION: Auburn Coach Bruce Pearl Donates $3.6M Home to Shelter Homeless Youth in Stunning Act of Compassion
AUBURN, AL — In a move that stunned both the sports world and the Auburn community, Auburn University men’s basketball coach Bruce Pearl announced the donation of his $3.6 million Lake Martin estate to establish a residential facility for homeless and at-risk youth.
Pearl, 65, who has coached the Tigers since 2014 and led them to their first-ever Final Four in 2019, revealed his decision during a quiet press conference held on the back porch of the lakefront mansion that has long been the envy of central Alabama.
“This house has been a blessing to my family,” Pearl said, gesturing to the 7-bedroom, 6-bath waterfront property behind him. “But there are kids out there with no roof over their heads, no safe place to sleep, no adult who believes in them. I decided it was time this house did more than just sit pretty on the lake.”
The new facility, called The Next Play Home, will open in spring 2026 and offer transitional housing, mental health services, tutoring, and mentorship to young people ages 14 to 22 who have aged out of foster care or are experiencing homelessness. Operated by a new non-profit led by Pearl’s wife, Brandy, and local faith and community leaders, the home will house up to 24 residents at a time.
Real estate experts say the home, a sprawling modern craftsman-style mansion with panoramic lake views, private docks, and a professional-grade kitchen, is one of the most valuable private properties in Tallapoosa County. Pearl reportedly declined multiple offers to sell the estate, opting instead for an outright donation.
“The easiest thing would’ve been to sell it, pocket the cash, and write a check,” Pearl said. “But I wanted the kids to feel what it’s like to live somewhere beautiful. To believe, maybe for the first time, that they’re worth something this good.”
Reaction from across the Auburn community was swift and emotional.
“I’ve followed Coach Pearl for years,” said Maria Trenton, a longtime Auburn season ticket holder. “But this? This is bigger than basketball. This is legacy.”
Pearl, known for his fiery courtside demeanor and deeply rooted Jewish faith, said the idea was seeded during a Sabbath reflection on the Hebrew phrase tikkun olam—to repair the world.
“I can’t fix everything,” he said, his voice cracking. “But I can open a door.”
The Auburn athletic department expressed full support for the initiative, and several current and former players have already pledged time and money to the cause. Sophomore guard Elijah Turner tweeted, “Coach Pearl built us a home on the court. Now he’s building one off it.”
Construction crews are expected to begin retrofitting the home this fall to add communal living spaces, study areas, and staff quarters. Pearl and his wife have quietly moved into a smaller residence in Auburn’s historic district.
When asked if he’ll miss the lake views, Pearl smiled. “Not at all,” he said. “I’ve seen a lot of sunsets out here. Now I want to see some sunrises—in their lives.”
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