Bruce Pearl Son Steven Pearl Named Auburn Head Coach After Father’s Retirement

Bruce Pearl is stepping away from coaching. Auburn basketball confirmed Monday that Pearl will retire before the 2025–26 season. His son, Steven Pearl, will take over as head coach. The change comes just weeks before the season opener against Bethune-Cookman on November 3.

The program announced that Steven has signed a five-year deal with Auburn. He takes the role after years of serving as assistant and associate head coach. According to Reuters, Auburn leaders said the move was planned well in advance.

Bruce Pearl Son Steven Pearl Takes Over Auburn Basketball

Steven Pearl has been part of Auburn’s staff since 2017. He worked his way up to associate head coach in 2023. He also served as the team’s defensive coordinator during Auburn’s Final Four run in 2025.

Under his leadership, Auburn’s defense ranked among the SEC’s best in recent years. Opponents shot only 39.6 percent from the field and 29.9 percent from three. The Tigers also made six NCAA Tournament appearances in the last eight seasons.

Steven has coaching experience at every level inside the program. He handled scouting, defensive strategy, and in-game adjustments. In 2021, he won his first game as acting head coach when Auburn beat North Alabama 70–44. That night, Bruce Pearl was suspended, leaving Steven in charge.

Auburn athletic director John Cohen said the promotion was a natural step. He praised Steven’s recruiting skills and his relationships with players. The university sees him as the right leader to keep Auburn competing at the highest level.

Bruce pearl and his son Steven Pearl

Steven Pearl’s Background and Playing Career

Steven Pearl is 38 years old. He becomes the youngest head coach in the SEC. Florida’s Todd Golden, at 40, is now the second-youngest.

Before coaching, Steven played for his father at Tennessee from 2007 to 2011. He appeared in 101 games with the Volunteers. His career averages were modest, at 1.2 points and 1.1 rebounds per game. But he was part of teams that made deep NCAA Tournament runs, including an Elite Eight appearance in 2010.

After college, Steven worked in medical sales before joining Auburn’s staff. His rise in the coaching ranks has been steady. Auburn fans now see him as the face of a new era.

Bruce Pearl’s retirement marks the end of a long run. His son Steven Pearl now carries the torch. Auburn hopes the family legacy will keep the program strong.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is Bruce Pearl’s son?

Bruce Pearl’s son is Steven Pearl. He has been on Auburn’s staff since 2017 and is now the new head coach.

Q2: How old is Steven Pearl?

Steven Pearl was born on September 14, 1987. He is 38 years old and the youngest head coach in the SEC.

Q3: What is Steven Pearl’s coaching background?

He served as assistant, associate head coach, and defensive coordinator at Auburn. He was key during Auburn’s 2025 Final Four run.

Q4: Did Steven Pearl play basketball?

Yes. He played for Tennessee from 2007 to 2011. He helped the Vols reach the Elite Eight in 2010.

Q5: When does Auburn’s season start?

Auburn opens its season on November 3, 2025. The Tigers will face Bethune-Cookman at home.

Sources

Reuters, Associated Press, BBC Sport, Auburn University press statements