BREAKING: Greg Gard Crowned 2025 College Basketball’s Philanthropy Icon—Honored for Life-Changing Impact, Humanitarian Efforts, and Generous Spirit Through the Greg Gard Family Foundation’s Remarkable Community Work
Madison, Wis. — In a moment that transcends the basketball court, Wisconsin Badgers head coach Greg Gard has been named the 2025 College Basketball’s Philanthropy Icon, earning national recognition for his tireless humanitarian efforts and profound community impact through the Greg Gard Family Foundation.
The award, presented by the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) in partnership with the American Sports Humanitarian Council, celebrates Gard’s unwavering commitment to charitable causes and his remarkable ability to inspire change far beyond the hardwood.
Founded in 2016, the Greg Gard Family Foundation was established in honor of Gard’s late father and has since grown into a beacon of hope for countless families. The foundation focuses heavily on supporting cancer research, patient assistance programs, and youth development initiatives—causes that hold deeply personal meaning for Gard. Through annual fundraising events, silent auctions, and community partnerships, the foundation has raised over $4 million to date, providing life-changing resources to individuals in need.
“Coaching is a privilege, but serving is a responsibility,” Gard said during the award ceremony in Las Vegas. “Basketball has given me a platform, but this honor belongs to every volunteer, donor, and partner who has walked alongside us in this mission. Together, we’re changing lives.”
Colleagues and players alike describe Gard as a coach who genuinely cares for the people around him. His philanthropic work extends beyond large-scale events—he is frequently seen visiting hospitals, mentoring youth, and quietly supporting local families facing hardship.
Under Gard’s leadership, the Badgers program has embraced a culture of service, with players participating in foundation activities, visiting children’s hospitals, and leading basketball clinics for underprivileged kids. “He doesn’t just teach us the game—he teaches us how to be men who give back,” said senior guard Max Klesmit.
This year’s recognition places Gard among an elite group of coaches whose off-court contributions have reshaped lives nationwide. Past recipients include legendary figures such as Mike Krzyzewski and John Calipari.
For Gard, however, the real prize is seeing the ripple effect of generosity in action. “It’s about hope,” he said. “If we can give someone a reason to keep fighting, then we’ve done our job.”
With his latest honor, Greg Gard has further cemented his legacy—not only as a successful coach but as a transformative figure in the realm of sports philanthropy.