In the heart of Auburn’s vibrant basketball culture, a significant event unfolded on March 20, 2025. Bruce Pearl, the charismatic head coach of the Auburn Tigers, was honored by the Mike Slive Foundation at the annual Blue Shoe Ball. This recognition not only celebrated Pearl’s remarkable coaching achievements but also his unwavering commitment to cancer awareness and prevention.
The Mike Slive Foundation, established in memory of the late SEC Commissioner Mike Slive, is dedicated to eradicating prostate cancer through public awareness and research funding. Pearl’s connection to this cause is deeply personal and longstanding. During his tenure at the University of Tennessee, he initiated the OUTLIVE program in 2009, inspired by former player Chris Lofton’s battle with testicular cancer. This initiative emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and proper treatment, principles that have saved countless lives.
Upon joining Auburn in 2014, Pearl introduced the AUTLIVE program, mirroring his earlier efforts. Each basketball season, the Auburn family rallies around the AUTLIVE Game, a special event that raises awareness and funds for cancer research. The Mike Slive Foundation has been a steadfast partner in this endeavor, offering free PSA blood test screenings at the AUTLIVE game for the past six years. These screenings have tested hundreds of men, undoubtedly saving lives through early detection.
Pearl’s impact extends beyond his philanthropic efforts. Under his leadership, Auburn’s basketball program has reached unprecedented heights. In the 2024-2025 season, the Tigers achieved a 27-4 record, tying the program record for regular-season wins. They secured the Southeastern Conference (SEC) regular-season title with a 15-3 mark and held the No. 1 ranking in the Associated Press Top 25 Poll for eight consecutive weeks. These accomplishments led to Pearl being named the SEC Coach of the Year for the fourth time in his career.
The Blue Shoe Ball, held at the Regions Field Ballroom, was a testament to Pearl’s dual legacy in sports and community service. Attendees celebrated not only the Tigers’ on-court successes but also the profound impact of Pearl’s cancer awareness initiatives. His dedication to the cause has fostered a culture of proactive health measures within the Auburn community and beyond.
In his acceptance speech, Pearl reflected on the importance of early detection and the role of community in combating cancer. He emphasized that the fight against cancer is a collective effort, one that requires continuous education, support, and action. His words resonated with many, reinforcing the significance of the foundation’s mission and the enduring legacy of Mike Slive.
The evening also highlighted the broader Auburn basketball culture, renowned for its strong sense of community and unwavering fan support. The student section, affectionately known as “The Jungle,” exemplifies this spirit. Students camp out for prime seating, creating a vibrant atmosphere that energizes players and fans alike. This culture of camaraderie and support has been instrumental in the team’s success and is a reflection of Pearl’s leadership.
As the night concluded, it was evident that Bruce Pearl’s influence transcends the basketball court. His commitment to excellence, both in coaching and community service, embodies the values that the Mike Slive Foundation seeks to promote. The honor bestowed upon him at the Blue Shoe Ball serves as a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on a community’s health, spirit, and unity.
In the words of Anna Slive Harwood, Executive Director of the Mike Slive Foundation, “Coach is one of the most generous and engaging persons I know. Coach and my father understand the importance of relationships and helping others.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of Bruce Pearl’s legacy—a legacy marked by leadership, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.
The 2025 Blue Shoe Ball will be remembered not just as an event honoring a coach, but as a celebration of the enduring power of community, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of a world without cancer.
