Bruce Pearl retires: Auburn Coach steps down after historic 11-year run; Steven Pearl likely to take his role

College basketball faces another shocking shift with the abrupt retirement of Auburn’s Bruce Pearl, a coaching legend whose 11-year tenure transformed the Tigers into a powerhouse. The 65-year-old finalized his decision to step away, marking the second consecutive preseason rocked by a high-profile coaching exit, following Virginia’s Tony Bennett in October 2024.

Pearl’s departure closes a remarkable chapter for Auburn, highlighted by two Final Four appearances, including a No. 1 seed run last season.

Bruce Pearl's legendary career

Bruce Pearl’s coaching journey began in 1992 at Division II Southern Indiana, where he led the Screaming Eagles to a national championship in 1995. His success there paved the way for stints at Milwaukee (2001-05) and Tennessee (2005-11), where he built a reputation for turning programs into contenders.

However, it was at Auburn, starting in 2014, where Pearl cemented his legacy. He guided Auburn to its first-ever Final Four in 2019 and another last season, the program’s greatest run in history.

Over his 11 years with Auburn, Pearl transformed a historically middling program into a consistent NCAA Tournament threat. His teams were known for their fast-paced, high-energy style, earning him admiration from fans and peers alike. Pearl’s ability to connect with players and build winning cultures made Auburn a destination for top talent, culminating in five straight NCAA Tournament appearances from 2018 to 2023.

Retirement decision

Pearl’s retirement follows months of speculation about his future. According to reports, the coach grappled with the decision throughout the offseason before making it final on Monday morning. At 65, Pearl leaves behind a 634-406 career record across his head coaching stops, with a 271-151 mark at Auburn alone.

Steven Pearl to step up

Auburn wasted no time ensuring continuity, with sources confirming that Steven Pearl, Bruce’s 38-year-old son, will take over as head coach. Steven, a former Auburn assistant, has been groomed for this moment, having worked under his father and absorbed his coaching philosophy. The transition to Steven Pearl signals Auburn’s trust in maintaining the program’s momentum, though filling his father’s shoes will be no small task.

Auburn’s future

Bruce Pearl’s retirement marks the end of an era, but his impact on Auburn basketball will endure. From a Division II championship to leading Auburn to uncharted heights, Pearl’s career is a testament to his coaching brilliance.