Bruce Pearl retires from Auburn; Steve Pearl to take over as head coach

Auburn coach Bruce Pearl is retiring from college basketball, according to multiple outlets, in a move that comes just weeks before the Tigers begin the 2025-26 season. The 65-year-old has led Auburn for 11 seasons, guiding the program to six NCAA Tournament appearances and its first Final Four in 2019. Pearl’s departure clears the way for his son, Steve Pearl, the associate head coach, to take over as the Tigers’ head coach.

Under Pearl, Auburn built a consistent presence in the NCAA Tournament and reached the program’s pinnacle with the 2019 Final Four appearance, the first in its history. The Tigers have advanced to the NCAA Tournament six times in Pearl’s tenure, including a run that elevated Auburn from a regional contender to a national challenger. Before arriving at Auburn, Pearl spent six seasons as head coach at Tennessee, where he led the Volunteers to the NCAA Tournament in every season and posted Sweet 16 appearances three times and an Elite Eight run.

Steve Pearl, Pearl’s son, has served as Auburn’s associate head coach and will assume the top job as part of a father-son succession that has drawn attention across college basketball.

That transition follows a period of postseason success for Auburn and reflects the program’s efforts to maintain continuity as it navigates a changing landscape in college basketball. Auburn is preparing for the 2025-26 season with Pearl’s son stepping into leadership while remaining part of a familiar coaching staff.

With the season tipping off in six weeks, Auburn faces questions about roster development, recruiting pipelines and on-court identity as it moves forward under a new head coach. The program will be looking to translate past successes into sustained competitiveness in the SEC and beyond.

Officials at Auburn had not issued a formal statement in the reports, and the university did not immediately provide comment. The reports from the New York Post and others indicate the retirement and the transition to Steve Pearl, though details from the school were not immediately available.

Analysts note that Pearl’s departure closes a notable chapter in Auburn athletics but also creates an opportunity for stability under a familiar coach who knows the program’s culture and system. As the Tigers prepare for the season, they will rely on continuity within the staff and a clear path forward for recruiting and player development.