Auburn University is entering a new chapter in its basketball history, as legendary men’s coach Bruce Pearl announced his retirement on September 22, 2025, after 11 memorable seasons.
Pearl, who turned the Tigers into a national powerhouse, won’t be disappearing entirely; he’ll remain at Auburn in a new role as a special assistant to the athletic director, acting as an ambassador for the program he helped shape.
Bruce Pearl Calls it a Career with Auburn Basketball
The news came just weeks before the 2025–2026 season and on the heels of Pearl’s most successful year yet, which included a Final Four appearance.
In a heartfelt video message, Pearl, 65, explained that it was time to step aside. “I can no longer be the relentless competitor my team deserves,” he said. With 232 wins, two Final Four appearances, and a lasting mark on the program, Pearl leaves as the winningest coach in Auburn men’s basketball history.
Bruce Pearl has released a video.
— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) September 22, 2025
Rumors had circulated about a possible political run, but Pearl quickly set the record straight: he won’t be pursuing a U.S. Senate seat. Instead, he plans to focus on family and his new ambassador role, keeping his heart close to the program he built.
Taking over the Tigers is Steven Pearl, Bruce’s son, who has been part of the Auburn staff since 2014 and was promoted to associate head coach before the 2023-24 season. Steven played under his father at Tennessee from 2007 to 2011 and has been a key part of Auburn’s success. While he hasn’t been a head coach before, the five-year deal he signed shows Auburn’s confidence in him to lead the team forward.
Football Head Coach Huge Freeze Congratulates Pearl
Football coach Hugh Freeze, who is working to rebuild Auburn’s football program, had kind words for Pearl. “He’s truly one of the best men I’ve ever met,” Freeze said, showing the mutual respect between the two coaches.
Added, “He’s truly one of the best men I’ve ever met” https://t.co/JjIBpngCRA
— Peter Rauterkus (@peter_rauterkus) September 22, 2025
Athletic Director John Cohen explained how both programs had early setbacks but developed into resolute winners, highlighting the perseverance and long-term planning required to be successful at Auburn.
Even in the more difficult football seasons, Pearl has always respected Freeze’s style, and Freeze has publicly acknowledged Pearl’s contributions to basketball. Auburn and its student-athletes are obviously very important to both coaches, who have fostered a culture of respect and dedication throughout the sports department.
With Bruce stepping back but remaining nearby and Steven prepared to take over, Auburn basketball is embarking on a new chapter that combines excitement with a new taste. That alone is enough to spark the new era in Auburn.
