Bruce Pearl Hopes to See Son Steven Coach in the NBA After Recent Interest

Bruce Pearl Hopes to See Son Steven Coach in the NBA After Recent Interest

Auburn men’s basketball coach Bruce Pearl recently revealed in an interview that his son, Steven Pearl, was approached by an NBA team for a coaching opportunity. While Steven ultimately chose to remain with Auburn as the Associate Head Coach, Bruce shared his heartfelt wish for his son to take the next step and lead an NBA team in the future.

A Father’s Pride in His Son’s Talent
During the interview, Bruce Pearl expressed immense pride in Steven’s coaching abilities and his role in the success of Auburn basketball. “Steven is not just a great assistant coach; he’s a great coach, period,” Bruce said. “When an NBA team reached out to him, I was proud because it validated the hard work he’s put in over the years. Honestly, I wish he had taken the job.”

Bruce went on to explain that he believes Steven has the potential to make a significant impact in the NBA. “He has the basketball IQ, the work ethic, and the ability to connect with players at any level. I know he’s ready, and I want to see him have that opportunity.”

Steven Pearl’s Impact at Auburn
Steven Pearl has been a vital part of the Auburn basketball program for over a decade, serving as an assistant coach before being promoted to Associate Head Coach in 2023. His contributions have been instrumental in Auburn’s rise as a national powerhouse, including their historic Final Four run in 2019 and securing the program’s first No. 1 ranking in 2022.

Players and staff alike have praised Steven for his dedication, strategic acumen, and ability to develop talent. Many credit him with helping Auburn maintain its competitive edge in the highly competitive SEC.

Why Steven Chose to Stay
According to Bruce, Steven’s decision to remain at Auburn was driven by loyalty to the program and the players. “He loves Auburn, and he loves what we’re building here,” Bruce explained. “But as his father and his head coach, I know he’s destined for more. I want to see him coach at the highest level, and I know he will when the time is right.”

Bruce also acknowledged the challenge of balancing family and career aspirations. “It’s hard because I want what’s best for him as his dad, but I also want what’s best for Auburn as his coach. Selfishly, I’m glad he stayed, but I won’t hold him back when the right opportunity comes.”

The Road Ahead for Steven Pearl
With NBA interest already knocking on his door, it’s only a matter of time before Steven Pearl becomes a prominent name in professional basketball circles. Bruce believes his son’s journey will inspire other young coaches who aspire to make it to the top.

“Steven has the ability to lead and inspire, and that’s what makes him special. Whether it’s at Auburn or in the NBA, he’s going to be successful,” Bruce said.

### **A Legacy of Coaching Excellence**
Bruce Pearl’s revelation highlights the strength of the Pearl family’s coaching legacy and the impact they’ve had on Auburn basketball. While Steven’s future may lead him to the NBA, his contributions at Auburn have already left an indelible mark.

As Auburn gears up for another promising season, the possibility of seeing Steven Pearl coaching in the NBA remains an exciting prospect, not just for his father but for basketball fans everywhere.