Auburn to Unveil Statue Honoring Bruce Pearl Outside Jordan-Hare Stadium
Auburn, AL – In a moment that cements his legacy as the architect of Auburn’s basketball renaissance, Bruce Pearl is set to be immortalized with a statue outside the southwest corner of Jordan-Hare Stadium, near the iconic Tiger Walk entrance. The university announced the tribute this week, marking a historic first for Auburn men’s basketball.
Pearl, who took the helm of the program in 2014, has transformed Auburn basketball into a national powerhouse. Under his leadership, the Tigers have reached unprecedented heights, including the program’s first-ever Final Four appearance in 2019, a historic No. 1 overall seed in 2025, multiple SEC championships, and a record-setting 32-win season. He recently became Auburn’s all-time winningest basketball coach, surpassing Joel Eaves with over 215 victories.
A Monument to More Than Wins
“This statue is about more than just basketball,” said Auburn University President Christopher B. Roberts. “It’s a tribute to a man who brought pride, passion, and belief to Auburn basketball. Bruce Pearl built a culture that has inspired a campus, a community, and an entire state.”
The location of the statue—outside the football stadium—reflects Pearl’s broader impact on Auburn athletics. Though Jordan-Hare is the home of Auburn football, it has become the symbolic heart of the university’s sporting tradition. The decision to place Pearl’s statue near the Tiger Walk entrance also places him in the company of other Auburn legends like Ralph “Shug” Jordan and Pat Dye.
A Coach Who Changed the Culture
Pearl’s fiery sideline demeanor, community engagement, and fearless recruiting turned “The Jungle”—Auburn’s student section—into one of the most electric environments in college basketball. His players have not only excelled on the court but have also reflected Pearl’s commitment to character, discipline, and education.
“Coach Pearl didn’t just change Auburn basketball,” said Athletic Director John Cohen. “He changed the way we see Auburn basketball. His legacy goes beyond wins and banners—it lives in the energy, the excitement, and the belief that we can compete with anyone, anywhere.”
A Celebration of Auburn Basketball
The unveiling ceremony, scheduled for later this fall, will coincide with Auburn’s season opener and is expected to draw alumni, fans, and former players from across the country. Pearl, who remains head coach, expressed deep gratitude for the honor.
“I never dreamed of a statue,” Pearl said. “I dreamed of building something special here, and that dream came true because of the players, the staff, the university, and the Auburn Family. This statue is a symbol of what we’ve done together.”
Looking Ahead
As Bruce Pearl continues to guide Auburn into the national spotlight year after year, the statue will stand as a permanent reminder of his impact—not just on Auburn basketball, but on Auburn itself. A program that once lived in the shadows now shines under the brightest lights, thanks to a coach who believed in the impossible.
And now, his place among Auburn legends is forever cast in bronze.
