BREAKING: Clemson Tigers Basketball Coach Brad Brownell Launches “A Hope Rising Foundation” to Transform the Lives of Children with Disabilities — Providing Free Healthcare, Basic Needs, and Endless Love to the Kids of South Carolina — What an Angel in Human Form
Clemson, South Carolina — In a powerful act of compassion that transcends the basketball court, Clemson Tigers Men’s Basketball Head Coach Brad Brownell has officially launched the “Hope Rising Foundation,” a nonprofit organization aimed at transforming the lives of children with disabilities across South Carolina.
At a moving press conference held on the Clemson campus Thursday afternoon, Coach Brownell—visibly emotional—announced the foundation’s mission: to provide free healthcare, vital basic necessities, therapeutic services, educational support, and most importantly, unconditional love to children and families facing the challenges of physical and developmental disabilities.
> “This isn’t about basketball,” Brownell said, pausing to hold back tears. “This is about life. It’s about humanity. Every child deserves the right to smile, to hope, and to dream—no matter what they’re going through.”
With initial funding coming from Brownell’s personal salary contributions, donations from Clemson alumni, and support from community partners, the Hope Rising Foundation has already begun setting up mobile medical clinics, supplying adaptive equipment to families, and building a network of licensed therapists, educators, and volunteers across the Palmetto State.
Brownell also announced the opening of the first Hope Rising Community Center, set to break ground this fall near Greenville, SC—a state-of-the-art facility that will include medical exam rooms, therapy spaces, sensory play zones, and areas for parent education and respite care.
The announcement drew praise and admiration across the Clemson community and beyond.
> “Brad Brownell has always been a coach with character—but today he proved he’s a man of incredible heart,” said Clemson University President Jim Clements. “This foundation will change lives—not just for children, but for every parent who’s ever felt unseen or unsupported.”
For Brownell, the idea was born after meeting several young fans with disabilities through community outreach events. One child in particular, 8-year-old Jordan—a boy with spina bifida who dreamed of playing basketball—left a lasting impression.
> “He told me, ‘Coach, I might not run like the others, but I can still dream big.’ That moment changed me forever,” Brownell shared.
Players from the Clemson basketball team have already pledged to volunteer their time at upcoming Hope Rising events, offering mentorship and joy to the kids the foundation will serve.
Social media erupted with tributes to Brownell, with hashtags like #HopeRisingSC, #CoachWithAHeart, and #BradBrownellTheBlessing trending statewide. Many fans and parents called the move “the most inspiring assist of his career.”
As Clemson gears up for another competitive season on the court, its head coach is reminding everyone that the most important victories sometimes happen far away from stadium lights and scoreboards.
Brad Brownell isn’t just building a team—he’s building hope. And for the children of South Carolina, that hope is rising higher than ever.
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