Legendary UConn women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma and his star player Paige Bueckers have personally funded the construction of 100 homes for families left homeless by the catastrophic floods that devastated parts of Texas last month.

While many high-profile figures made public appeals and donations, Auriemma and Bueckers chose to act quietly — with no press conferences, no fanfare, and no social media posts. The story only came to public attention after local builders in Houston confirmed that a large portion of the emergency housing project, originally labeled anonymous, had been fully funded by the basketball icons.

Compassion Without Cameras

The Texas floods in early June were among the worst natural disasters the state has faced in years, displacing over 40,000 residents and causing billions in damage. Relief efforts have been ongoing, but permanent housing has been a critical and urgent challenge.

Behind the scenes, Auriemma and Bueckers worked directly with Habitat for Humanity Texas and Homes of Hope USA to fast-track the development of durable, storm-resilient homes in Houston, Beaumont, and Port Arthur. The duo reportedly donated over $8 million to cover not only construction costs but also furniture, utilities, and basic household items for families moving in.

“They never asked for credit,” said Monica Ruiz, a project manager with Habitat. “We only found out who the donors were when the legal paperwork had to be signed. Paige and Coach Auriemma didn’t want a spotlight — they just wanted people to have homes.”

A Deeply Personal Mission

Sources close to Bueckers say the initiative stemmed from a personal visit she made to Texas in mid-June to help with flood relief. Deeply moved by the stories of families living in shelters or cars, she called Auriemma and said, “We have to do more.”

Known for his fierce loyalty to his players and strong moral compass, Auriemma didn’t hesitate. Within days, the funding was in motion, and blueprints were being drafted.

“Coach always taught us to lead with our hearts,” Bueckers told volunteers during a private visit to one of the housing sites. “This was never about basketball. It was about dignity, love, and lifting people up.”

Community Reaction

The impact of their gesture is already being felt. As of this week, 42 families have moved into newly constructed homes, with the remaining units expected to be completed by early September.

One flood survivor, Denise Holloway, who lost everything in Port Arthur, said, “I don’t have the words. I went from sleeping on a cot in a church gym to watching my kids pick out their own bedrooms. Whoever did this gave us our lives back.”

News of Auriemma and Bueckers’ generosity sparked a wave of admiration and emotion online after it was confirmed Tuesday morning. Fans, athletes, and public figures flooded social media with praise for the pair’s humility and heart.

“True greatness isn’t just what you do on the court,” tweeted former UConn player Maya Moore. “Coach Auriemma and Paige just reminded us all of that.”

A Lasting Legacy

For Geno Auriemma — one of the most decorated coaches in sports history — and Paige Bueckers, who continues to inspire with her resilience and grace, this act of kindness is yet another chapter in their shared legacy. Not one measured in championships or stats, but in lives changed forever.

In a time of tragedy, they quietly chose to build hope — one home, one family at a time.