Bruce Pearl Announces Retirement as Auburn's Basketball Coach

September 22, 2025 - AUBURN, AL. - In a heartfelt announcement that reverberated across the college basketball landscape, Bruce Pearl declared his retirement as Auburn University's head basketball coach. After more than a decade at the helm, Pearl leaves behind not only an impressive record but also a legacy built on faith, family, and passion-values that defined his tenure and reshaped the future of Auburn basketball.

"Eleven years ago, I was given the opportunity of a lifetime to become the head basketball coach at Auburn, and it has been nothing short of amazing," Pearl reflected in his official statement. Those words mark the beginning of the end for a coach whose impact extended far beyond the hardwood, touching the lives of countless players, colleagues, and fans.

Transforming Auburn Basketball

When Pearl arrived at Auburn in 2014, the program was searching for direction and a new identity. With his boundless energy and infectious enthusiasm, Pearl galvanized the Auburn Family and set out to build a program from the ground up. Under his leadership, the Tigers soared to unprecedented heights, clinching championships, earning coveted NCAA tournament berths, and even making a historic Final Four appearance in 2019.

"With the Auburn Family's unwavering support, we have built a program from the ground up and taken it to heights it had never reached before," Pearl said. His words echo the gratitude and pride that shaped his approach, as he fostered a culture where players were challenged to excel-not only as athletes but as students and as men.

A Legacy of Excellence and Community

Pearl's success was never confined to wins and losses; his commitment to building Auburn's reputation extended to every corner of the community. The coach invested in local outreach, championed academic achievement, and cultivated what he described as "the best home-court advantage in college basketball." The atmosphere at Auburn Arena became electric on game days, a testament to the passion he inspired in fans and the connection he forged between the team and the university.

"Not only have we won championships, but we have built the best home-court advantage in college basketball, we've invested in this community and changed lives, and we've developed and graduated Auburn men," Pearl noted. His vision was holistic, prioritizing the development of well-rounded individuals. Auburn players not only improved on the court but excelled in the classroom, consistently earning academic honors and graduating at impressive rates.

Core Tenants: Faith, Family, Passion

Perhaps most striking about Pearl's legacy is the philosophy that guided it. "We built a program with the core tenants of faith, family and passion, and together, we made history. I hope we have made Auburn proud," he said. These words encapsulate the spirit of his stewardship. Pearl's approach was deeply personal and principled, creating an environment where players were supported, challenged, and celebrated.

Time to Step Aside

After almost five decades in coaching, Pearl acknowledged that the time had come to close this chapter. "I have been at this for almost 50 years and truthfully as hard as it is for me to say this, I have come to the realization that it's time for me to step aside. Being the head coach at Auburn has been the privilege of my life," he shared.

Pearl was quick to thank the players, staff, university administration, and Board of Trustees who stood with him over the years. Among those he credited were Jay Jacobs and Jay Gogue, for originally hiring him, and current leaders Dr. Chris Roberts and John Cohen for their continued commitment to excellence.

"There are so many people to thank, but the success that we achieved would not have been possible first and foremost, without the players who worked incredibly hard to improve every day on the court, in the classroom and developing into men. I've had the best staff in the country and can't thank them enough for their commitment," Pearl said.

Auburn Family Forever

As he steps away from the sidelines, Pearl leaves Auburn with a program transformed and a community enriched. "Auburn Family, I love you and I hope you understand that for me, it is time. Brandy and I are looking forward to the opportunity to continue serving the Auburn Family, just, in a new capacity. War Eagle!" he concluded.

Bruce Pearl's retirement signals the end of an era, but his legacy will endure-in the banners that hang in Auburn Arena, the young men he mentored, and the hearts of everyone touched by his devotion to the Auburn Family. War Eagle, Coach Pearl.