“Auburn Basketball Prepares for Coaching Shake-Up as NBA Interest in Steve Pearl Grows, Potential Assistants Emerge”

“Auburn Basketball Prepares for Coaching Shake-Up as NBA Interest in Steve Pearl Grows, Potential Assistants Emerge”

Auburn basketball could be facing a major coaching shake-up as interest in assistant coach Steve Pearl continues to rise from NBA teams. Steve, the son of head coach Bruce Pearl, has played a crucial role in Auburn’s recent success, and with speculation growing about his potential jump to the professional ranks, the Tigers are already identifying possible replacements should he depart.

Steve Pearl’s Growing Reputation and NBA Interest

Steve Pearl has been an integral part of Auburn’s coaching staff, working closely with his father to develop one of the most competitive programs in college basketball. His ability to connect with players, his expertise in scouting, and his role in player development have not gone unnoticed, especially by NBA franchises looking to bolster their coaching ranks.

With multiple NBA teams reportedly eyeing him for assistant coaching positions, the younger Pearl may soon have a tough decision to make. While staying at Auburn under his father’s leadership offers stability, the opportunity to join an NBA staff could be too tempting to pass up.

Auburn’s Contingency Plan: Who Could Replace Steve Pearl?

Anticipating a possible departure, Auburn has already begun considering several candidates who could step in to fill Steve Pearl’s role. Some of the top names being floated around include:

1. Ira Bowman (Current Auburn Assistant Coach)

Bowman has been part of Bruce Pearl’s staff since 2018 and has already established himself as a key figure in Auburn’s success. His familiarity with the program makes him a natural candidate for an expanded role if Steve Pearl departs.

2. Todd Abernethy (South Florida Assistant Coach)

A former Ole Miss point guard with a strong reputation in player development, Abernethy has experience coaching in the SEC and could be a great addition to Auburn’s staff. His ability to develop backcourt players would be a major asset.

3. Chuck Person (Former Auburn Assistant & NBA Assistant Coach)

A return to Auburn for Chuck Person would be a controversial but intriguing move. The former NBA player and Auburn legend has extensive coaching experience at both the college and pro levels. However, his involvement in past NCAA violations could complicate any potential reunion.

4. Ronald Nored (Indiana Pacers Assistant Coach)

Nored, a former Butler star and rising coaching talent in the NBA, has strong ties to the college game and could be interested in a return to the SEC if the opportunity arises. His experience with player development and defensive strategies would make him a valuable asset.

Bruce Pearl’s Take on the Situation

Bruce Pearl has remained tight-lipped about the possibility of his son leaving but has acknowledged the interest from NBA teams.

“It’s no surprise that Steve is getting attention,” Pearl said. “He’s worked hard, and he’s ready for the next step whenever that may come. If he stays, great. If he moves on, we’ll adjust, and Auburn basketball will keep pushing forward.”

What’s Next for Auburn Basketball?

While Steve Pearl’s future remains uncertain, Auburn is clearly preparing for the possibility of change within its coaching staff. The Tigers are expected to finalize their list of potential assistant coaching candidates in the coming weeks, ensuring they are ready for any decision Steve Pearl makes.

For now, Auburn fans will have to wait and see whether Steve Pearl follows his father’s path in college basketball or takes the leap to the NBA. Either way, Bruce Pearl and the Auburn Tigers remain focused on continuing their dominance in the SEC and beyond.