In a powerful reminder that the impact of college basketball extends far beyond the court, Purdue University head coach Matt Painter has been named 2025’s Philanthropy Icon of College Basketball, earning national recognition for his extraordinary humanitarian work and the enduring influence of the Matt Painter Family Foundation.
The honor, bestowed by the National Association of Collegiate Athletics and Community Impact (NACACI), celebrates coaches who embody the spirit of giving, leadership, and service to others. Painter, long respected for his coaching acumen, has now cemented his legacy as one of the sport’s most compassionate and civic-minded figures.
A Coach with a Cause
Known for his calm presence on the sidelines and fierce loyalty to his players, Matt Painter has quietly been building a legacy off the court for years. His foundation, launched in 2017, has become a powerhouse of community support across Indiana and beyond, with programs focused on youth mentorship, educational equity, mental health access, and family support services.
What began as a scholarship fund has evolved into a full-scale philanthropic enterprise, partnering with schools, local organizations, and national nonprofits to bring lasting change to underserved communities.
“It’s never been about the spotlight,” Painter said at a press event on Monday. “It’s about using the platform I’ve been given to lift others up — to give kids hope, to help families heal, and to remind people that someone cares.”
Life-Changing Impact
Under Painter’s leadership, the foundation has:
- Funded over 300 full academic scholarships for high school students across Indiana.
- Established mobile mental health clinics that serve thousands of families in rural and urban communities.
- Launched after-school programs in 15 underserved school districts.
- Partnered with local shelters and food banks to provide essential support to families in crisis.
His most recent initiative, “Courts for Communities,” builds multi-use basketball courts in low-income neighborhoods while integrating mentorship programs run by Purdue athletes and alumni.
“Coach Painter’s work is transformational,” said NACACI chairperson Dr. Marcia Velez. “He’s changing lives, not just outcomes. He’s proving that college sports leaders can be pillars of progress.”
A Celebrated Legacy
The award was presented at the 2025 Coaches for Change Gala in Chicago, where Painter received a standing ovation from fellow coaches, athletes, and community leaders. Tributes poured in from across the sports world, including heartfelt messages from current and former players who credit Painter with shaping their lives both on and off the court.
“Coach taught me how to be a better man,” said NBA star and Purdue alum Jaden Ivey in a video message. “He always said, ‘Be great where it counts the most — in your heart, and in your community.’ He lives that every day.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the accolades, Painter remains focused on expanding the foundation’s reach and continuing his mission of giving back.
“There’s still so much to do,” he said. “If this recognition helps bring more attention to the work — to the needs we’re trying to meet — then I’m grateful. But the real heroes are the kids and families we serve. They inspire me every day.”
As college basketball continues to evolve, Matt Painter stands out not only as a brilliant coach but as a beacon of generosity and purpose — a reminder that in the game of life, character wins championships.
