‘A blessing in the storm’: How Auburn basketball helped Sam Cunningham beat cancer
In life, adversity often presents itself unexpectedly. For Sam Cunningham, a promising athlete with a bright future in basketball, the challenge came not in the form of a tough opponent on the court but in the shape of a life-threatening illness—cancer. Despite the gravity of his diagnosis, Cunningham found an incredible amount of strength and support in the Auburn University basketball program, as well as from teammates, coaches, and the broader Auburn family. This is the inspiring story of how the Auburn Tigers rallied around Cunningham in his darkest hours, giving him the strength to fight and ultimately beat cancer.
A Promising Start to a Basketball Career
Sam Cunningham’s basketball journey began like many others—a young athlete driven by his love for the game. Growing up, he was known for his impressive work ethic, competitive spirit, and unwavering dedication to becoming the best version of himself on the court. His passion for basketball was evident from an early age, and as he entered Auburn University, he became a vital part of the Auburn Tigers basketball team, playing for the university’s basketball program under head coach Bruce Pearl.
As a player on Auburn’s roster, Cunningham was poised for success. His natural athleticism, combined with his basketball IQ and determination, earned him a place on a team that had quickly become one of the most competitive programs in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The Auburn Tigers were not only focused on developing their players into skilled basketball players but also on fostering an environment of growth, support, and camaraderie. Cunningham, like many other players, found himself surrounded by talented teammates and a coaching staff committed to their development. But despite the positive momentum and potential for success, Cunningham’s life would soon take an unexpected turn.
A Diagnosis That Shook Everything
During the 2023-2024 season, just as Cunningham was gearing up for what promised to be a memorable year of basketball at Auburn, he received devastating news: he had been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. The diagnosis sent shockwaves through not just Cunningham’s life but also through the entire Auburn basketball program. Cancer is always a word that stirs fear, but for an athlete as vibrant and full of life as Cunningham, the news was especially hard to process.
For many, a cancer diagnosis could mean the end of their dreams. For a young athlete who had just begun to realize his full potential, the future seemed uncertain. However, Cunningham was far from one to give in to adversity. The outpouring of love and support from his teammates, coaches, and Auburn’s passionate fanbase would prove to be a crucial factor in his ability to overcome the greatest challenge of his life.
Auburn Basketball: A Family in the Face of Adversity
One of the most remarkable aspects of Auburn’s basketball program is its sense of unity. Coach Bruce Pearl and his staff have built a program that prioritizes teamwork, camaraderie, and support for one another—values that transcend the game of basketball. When Sam Cunningham received his cancer diagnosis, the entire Auburn family rallied around him. Teammates, coaches, staff, and fans offered unwavering support, making sure Cunningham knew that he was not facing this battle alone.
For Cunningham, the Auburn Tigers were not just his teammates—they were his second family. His bond with his fellow players was a source of strength as he began his treatment. Knowing that he had an entire team standing behind him gave Cunningham the motivation to face each day with determination. Auburn’s commitment to his well-being became a beacon of hope that helped him stay positive and focused on his recovery.
“I didn’t expect the kind of support I got from my teammates and coaches,” Cunningham shared. “The Auburn basketball family came together in a way I can’t even describe. They were there for me every step of the way—whether it was checking in on me during treatments, visiting me when I couldn’t be at practice, or just giving me that mental push when I needed it. It meant the world to me.”
Cunningham’s teammates, many of whom had already formed strong relationships with him on and off the court, made sure to offer him both emotional and mental support during the grueling days of his battle. They would visit him at the hospital, organize group prayers, and constantly reassure him that he was a vital part of their team, no matter where he was. The emotional connection and unity that defined Auburn basketball became a source of healing for Cunningham during his most trying times.
The Role of Coach Bruce Pearl
At the forefront of the Auburn basketball program, Coach Bruce Pearl was more than just a coach to Cunningham—he was a mentor and a father figure. Pearl’s leadership philosophy revolves around creating a supportive and inclusive environment, which was evident when Cunningham’s diagnosis was revealed. Pearl’s commitment to his players goes beyond the basketball court, and this was reflected in his actions as Cunningham faced his battle with cancer.
“Basketball is important, but the health and well-being of our players come first,” said Coach Pearl. “When Sam was diagnosed, it was a call to action for all of us. We had to rally behind him and make sure that he had everything he needed, not just to recover physically but also to stay mentally strong.”
Pearl made it clear that basketball could wait, but Cunningham’s health could not. He gave Cunningham the time he needed for his treatments, while the rest of the team made sure to carry the load on the court. Pearl’s leadership extended beyond simply allowing Cunningham the space to focus on his health—he also provided emotional support, constantly reminding Cunningham that the Auburn basketball program was his family, and they would be there for him every step of the way.
Cancer Treatment and the Road to Recovery
Cunningham’s treatment plan was long and challenging. The road to recovery was not easy, and it required an immense amount of strength, both mentally and physically. During this time, Cunningham found solace in the small victories—whether it was the encouraging text messages from teammates, the visits from coaches, or simply the knowledge that his Auburn family was behind him. Every piece of support helped him endure the painful and exhausting treatments.
Throughout the process, Cunningham kept his focus on returning to the basketball court. He remained determined to come back stronger and healthier, knowing that the Auburn Tigers were ready to welcome him back with open arms. It was the sense of community, the love from his teammates, and the hope that he would one day return to the sport he loved that fueled his relentless determination to get better.
Cunningham also found strength in his faith, leaning on his spiritual beliefs during the most difficult days of his treatment. He often expressed how the support of his faith, his teammates, and his family kept him going when things felt hopeless.
A Triumph Over Adversity
By the time Cunningham finished his final round of treatment, he had not only defeated cancer but had also experienced a personal transformation. He returned to Auburn in a time of great joy, as he was officially cancer-free and ready to resume his life both on and off the court. Cunningham’s story became a symbol of resilience and hope, inspiring not only Auburn basketball fans but also people from all walks of life who had followed his journey.
Upon his return to the court, Cunningham was greeted with a wave of support from his teammates, coaches, and fans. His comeback was not just a victory for him personally but for the Auburn basketball program as a whole. It was a testament to the power of teamwork, love, and determination. Cunningham’s journey had shown that sometimes the greatest battles are fought off the court, and with the right support, anything is possible.
“I can’t thank Auburn enough for everything they’ve done for me,” Cunningham said in an emotional interview after his return. “It was a long road, but having my teammates and coaches by my side made all the difference. I’m just grateful to be here today, back with my family and my team.”
A Story of Strength, Support, and Perseverance
Sam Cunningham’s story is one of courage, resilience, and the unbreakable bond of team and family. Despite facing one of the toughest challenges of his life, he triumphed over adversity with the help of the Auburn basketball program. Cunningham’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, faith, and the human spirit in overcoming life’s hardest obstacles. It is a story that will continue to inspire for years to come, not just within Auburn basketball but across the world of sports and beyond.
In the end, Cunningham’s victory over cancer is more than just a personal achievement—it is a testament to the power of support, and it reinforces the idea that sometimes the greatest wins happen off the court. For Cunningham, Auburn basketball was more than just a team; it was his lifeline, and together they proved that with faith, love, and a relentless spirit, anything is possible.
