After 11 seasons, Bruce Pearl has retired as the head men's basketball coach at Auburn University. The 63-year-old coach took the Tigers to two Final Fours, won five SEC championships and was responsible for the greatest run in program history.
Auburn athletic director John Cohen released a statement discussing the impact that Pearl had on not only Auburn basketball but also the university and its fan base.
“Throughout his five decades on the court, Bruce has energized fan bases, won championships, helped student-athletes graduate, worked with young people to achieve their dreams, and impacted countless lives. The marks of a true college basketball Hall of Famer.
“While Bruce has been a stalwart of college basketball for his entire career, nowhere has he made a stronger impact than his 11 years at Auburn. During his tenure on the Plains, Bruce has brought pride to the Auburn family as he pursued and won championships through relentless toughness and determination.
“I have seen BP coach over these last three seasons, not just games, but at morning workouts, and in the practice gym. It has been a pleasure watching Coach Pearl love the student-athletes so deeply and take pride in their success both on and off the court - but also instilling in them what it is to be an Auburn man.
“I know Bruce and Brandy will continue to be pillars of the Auburn community and that they will be strong advocates for the next chapter of Auburn Men’s Basketball and all of Auburn University.”
Auburn University President Christopher Roberts echoed Cohen's message.
“On March 18, 2014, Bruce Pearl captivated the entire Auburn Family as he stepped off the plane and proudly declared that men's basketball championships would soon come to The Plains. Throughout his 11 seasons at the helm, Bruce backed up that declaration and more, bringing national acclaim to our program and pride to the Auburn Family. It has been a true pleasure watching Bruce lead Auburn’s program, elevate its stature and develop his student-athletes into Auburn Men. I am thankful for the tireless work BP has put into the Auburn men's basketball program and the way in which he has truly loved and championed Auburn University. Tracy and I wish both Bruce and Brandy the best as they enter this next chapter and we're thrilled that they will continue to be treasured members of the Auburn community.”