Bruce Pearl steps down at Auburn, son Steven takes over as head coach

After eleven unforgettable seasons at the helm of Auburn, Bruce Pearl has announced his retirement from coaching the men's basketball team. The 65-year-old coach, credited with transforming the Tigers into a national powerhouse, will now take on a front office role as Special Assistant to the Athletic Director. Pearl leaves behind a remarkable legacy: 246 wins, six NCAA Tournament appearances, three SEC regular season titles, two SEC tournament championships, and — most notably — two historic trips to the Final Four, including one just last season. “We built something historic — with faith, family, and passion,” Pearl said emotionally, bidding farewell to the “Auburn Family.”

The ball now passes to his son, Steven Pearl, who has been named the new head coach under a five-year contract. Formerly the associate head coach, Steven was already a key figure in the coaching staff and represents a natural continuation of his father’s vision. His appointment reflects the university’s desire to stay true to the program’s identity — a winning philosophy rooted in hard work and the holistic development of its players. The challenge ahead is significant: keeping Auburn among the elite of college basketball following one of the most successful eras in its history.