Auburn's Steven Pearl era off to tough start in 'Iron Bowl of Basketball'

Bruce Pearl's son faces challenges in taking over the Tigers' program after a Final Four run

Feb. 7, 2026 at 6:55pm

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In his first season as Auburn's head coach, Steven Pearl is tasked with keeping the program's momentum going after a Final Four appearance last year. With a young roster and a tough schedule, Pearl is facing early adversity, including a tough loss to rival Alabama in the 'Iron Bowl of Basketball'. The article provides a behind-the-scenes look at Auburn's preparations for the rivalry game and the challenges Pearl is navigating as he tries to establish his own identity while following in his father Bruce's footsteps.

Why it matters

Auburn basketball has become a national power under Bruce Pearl's leadership, and the transition to his son Steven as the new head coach is being closely watched. Steven Pearl faces the challenge of maintaining the program's success with a largely new roster, while also establishing his own coaching style and identity separate from his father's. The 'Iron Bowl of Basketball' rivalry game against Alabama is a high-profile early test for the younger Pearl.

The details

Steven Pearl, 38, took over as Auburn's head coach after his father Bruce Pearl retired abruptly in September. The younger Pearl inherited a roster that saw a mass exodus of players, including several key contributors from last year's Final Four team. Auburn has 10 new players this season and the second-youngest roster in the SEC. Despite a tough early schedule, the Tigers have managed to stay in NCAA Tournament contention at 14-8 overall and 5-4 in SEC play. Preparing for the rivalry game against Alabama, Auburn's coaches focused on slowing down the Crimson Tide's high-powered offense and grinding out possessions on their own end. However, Auburn ultimately fell 96-92 in a close game.

  • On July 4, Quinn allegedly dove onto the hood of a Waymo vehicle and covered sensors.
  • On July 29, Quinn allegedly damaged a Waymo's tires and driver's side mirror.
  • On August 11, Quinn allegedly stomped on a windshield while someone was inside.

The players

Steven Pearl

The 38-year-old first-year head coach of the Auburn men's basketball team, taking over for his father Bruce Pearl after he retired abruptly in September.

Bruce Pearl

The former head coach of the Auburn men's basketball team, who retired in September at age 65 after making the program nationally relevant in his 11 seasons.

Tahaad Pettiford

The lone returning player from last season's Auburn team in the playing rotation, providing veteran leadership for the young roster.

Labaron Philon

One of the star guards for the Alabama men's basketball team, leading their high-powered offense.

Aden Holloway

The other star guard for the Alabama men's basketball team, complementing Philon in running the Crimson Tide's offense.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.