Auburn men’s basketball coach Bruce Pearl is expected to step away from the sidelines before the 2025-26 season begins, according to multiple reports Monday.
Pearl’s son, Steven Pearl, is reportedly set to take over. He currently serves as the Tigers’ associate head coach.
The longtime coach’s decision comes amid speculation about a possible political career. With Sen. Tommy Tuberville launching a run for Alabama governor, questions have surfaced about whether Pearl could make a Senate bid.
Pearl addressed the chatter in July during an appearance on the Scott Jennings Show. “Can I also have an impact as a basketball coach?” he asked. “I’m graduating kids. I’m teaching kids. … I don’t know that I have to be a Senator in order (to make an impact), there are so many things about Washington that are so dysfunctional that I don’t even know that I could make a difference there.”
Beyond basketball, Pearl has been outspoken about his Jewish faith and his support for Israel. He has consistently condemned antisemitism and has praised former President Donald Trump’s handling of conflicts in the Middle East. Pearl also serves as chairman of the U.S. Israel Education Association.
On the court, Pearl transformed Auburn into a national contender. He compiled a 246-125 record with the Tigers and guided the program to two Final Four appearances.
If the reports hold, Auburn will soon close the book on the Pearl era — and the transition to Steven Pearl will mark the start of a new chapter.