AUBURN, AL – In a fitting tribute to the man who single-handedly transformed the program, Auburn University has officially announced that a statue of men’s basketball head coach Bruce Pearl will be erected on campus. The statue, celebrating Pearl’s status as the winningest coach in program history and the architect of Auburn’s rise to national prominence, will be located at “The Hub of Auburn Basketball,” prominently outside of Neville Arena. Work on the monument is scheduled to begin on October 20th 2025, marking the start of a lasting tribute to a coach who became a legend.
The announcement was met with an outpouring of excitement from the Auburn Family, who have witnessed firsthand the incredible turnaround Pearl orchestrated. When he arrived in 2014, the program was mired in mediocrity. In the decade that followed, he built a powerhouse, leading the Tigers to unprecedented success.
His accomplishments are a laundry list of firsts and records for the university:- First-Ever Final Four Appearances: Pearl led Auburn to its first Final Four in 2019 and followed that up with a second trip in 2025.
- Most Wins in Program History: In January 2025, Pearl surpassed Joel Eaves to become Auburn’s all-time winningest coach, a milestone that cemented his legacy.
- Multiple SEC Championships: Under his leadership, the Tigers have won the SEC regular season title three times (2018, 2022, 2025) and the SEC Tournament title twice (2019, 2024).
- First No. 1 Ranking: Pearl guided the program to its first-ever No. 1 ranking in both the AP and Coaches polls in 2022, a historic achievement that put Auburn basketball on a national pedestal.
The chosen location for the statue, outside Neville Arena, is the perfect homage. The arena, which has become a fortress and one of the most feared home-court advantages in the SEC, is the place where the “Pearlville” culture truly comes alive. Fans have been lining up for tickets and filling the seats for years, creating an electric atmosphere that is a direct result of Pearl’s energy and passion. Placing his statue there will forever connect his image with the program’s most hallowed ground.
“Bruce Pearl’s impact on Auburn University goes far beyond wins and championships,” said a statement from the university’s Athletic Department. “He instilled a belief in our program and galvanized a fan base in a way we’ve never seen before. His statue at Neville Arena will serve as a permanent reminder of the standard of excellence he has established and the unforgettable moments he has delivered to the Auburn Family. This is a well-deserved honor for a coach who has given so much to this university.”
The decision to honor Pearl with a statue places him in elite company. The university has previously recognized other legendary figures with statues, including basketball great Charles Barkley and Heisman Trophy winners Bo Jackson, Pat Sullivan, and Cam Newton. Pearl’s statue will stand as a symbol of his place among the pantheon of Auburn athletic heroes.
Bruce Pearl, known for his charismatic and often emotional public appearances, has always emphasized the importance of the Auburn Family. This tribute is the ultimate acknowledgment of his deep connection to the university and its fans. His journey has been a remarkable one, filled with highs and lows, but through it all, his commitment to Auburn has never wavered. This statue will stand not only as a testament to his coaching success but also to his unwavering loyalty and love for the university.
“It’s hard to put into words what this means,” said Coach Pearl. “When I first came to Auburn, I could only dream of building a program that would be embraced by the fans and be competitive on a national stage. This honor is not just for me; it’s for every player, coach, and fan who has been a part of this journey. To have a statue at the place where so many incredible memories have been made is truly humbling. This is what a coach does, you build something bigger than yourself, and I am so grateful to the Auburn Family for allowing me to be a part of their legacy.”
As construction begins on October 20th, the statue will serve as a beacon for future generations, reminding them of the vision, passion, and tireless work ethic that can transform a program and a community. What a coach, indeed.
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