NEW IN: “History Made: Bruce Pearl Wins 2025 AP Coach of the Year Following Auburn’s Record-Breaking Season”
History Made: Bruce Pearl Named 2025 AP Coach of the Year After Record-Breaking Season with Auburn
In a historic moment for college basketball, Bruce Pearl, head coach of the Auburn Tigers, has been named the 2025 Associated Press (AP) Men’s College Basketball Coach of the Year. This marks the first tie in the 58-year history of the award, as Pearl shares the honor with Rick Pitino of St. John’s University .
A Record-Breaking Season
Under Pearl’s leadership, Auburn achieved a school-record 32 wins during the 2024–2025 season. The Tigers clinched the Southeastern Conference (SEC) regular-season title and secured a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Auburn’s remarkable run culminated in a Final Four appearance, marking the program’s second such achievement under Pearl’s tenure .
Overcoming Challenges
Pearl’s journey to this pinnacle was not without its challenges. In 2011, while coaching at Tennessee, he was dismissed following an NCAA violation related to hosting a barbecue for recruits. This incident led to a three-year show-cause penalty, sidelining him from coaching at the Division I level. However, in 2014, Auburn hired Pearl as head coach, and he has since transformed the program into a national powerhouse.
Acknowledgment and Legacy
Pearl’s recognition as the AP Coach of the Year is a testament to his resilience and coaching acumen. In his 11th season with Auburn, he surpassed Joel Eaves to become the program’s all-time winningest coach . This achievement adds to his legacy, which includes multiple SEC championships and NCAA Tournament appearances.
Looking Ahead
As Pearl continues to lead Auburn, the future looks promising. With a strong recruiting class and a commitment to excellence, the Tigers are poised to remain at the forefront of college basketball. Bruce Pearl’s journey from adversity to acclaim serves as an inspiring narrative of perseverance and success.
