Before discussing this past weekend's loss against Oklahoma and Auburn football's upcoming game at Texas A&M, head football coach Hugh Freeze took a moment to congratulate Bruce Pearl on his retirement after 11 seasons on the Plains.
“First, congratulations to Coach Pearl," he said. "His record speaks for itself - the Final Fours, SEC titles, his draft picks, NCAA Tournaments. Truthfully, all of that is great, but he’s truly one of the best men that I’ve ever met. He’s endeared himself to me as a friend, has been there every step of the way for me. I don’t know that I’ve ever met anyone that makes everyone in the room feel honored like he does. I know I’ll still get to laugh with him and see him at the lake and be around him, but certainly will miss being in the foxhole together somewhat. But the good thing is, congratulations to his son, Steven, on this great opportunity to step in and start his career as a head coach at a wonderful place like Auburn. He’s put in years of investment in getting this program where it is. Happy for Steven, he’s also a good friend. Look forward to developing a deeper relationship with him like I have with his father, Bruce. To Brandy and Bruce, congratulations. I have no idea what’s next for him, who knows. But I know they’ll have fun and enjoy some times together. So congratulations there."
Pearl helped build the Auburn basketball program into a power upon his arrival in 2014. Before he took over, the Tigers had appeared in the NCAA Tournament just eight times, and not since 2003. In Pearl's 11 seasons, Auburn reached March Madness seven times, making it to the Final Four twice, while also winning five SEC championships.
During the 2021-22 and 2024-25 seasons, the Tigers were ranked at No. 1 in both polls.