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Bruce Pearl Disappointed After Auburn Misses NCAA Tournament
Former Auburn coach reacts to his team's exclusion from March Madness
Mar. 15, 2026 at 11:34pm
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Despite thinking they had a strong case for an NCAA Tournament bid this season, Auburn and coach Bruce Pearl will not be participating in March Madness. Pearl, who is part of CBS's Selection Sunday coverage, expressed his disappointment with the Tigers' exclusion, noting they had beaten several champion teams during the regular season.
Why it matters
Auburn has been a consistent contender in men's college basketball in recent years under Bruce Pearl's leadership, making the tournament in 2022 and 2024. Their exclusion this year is seen as a surprise by many, especially given their wins over top programs.
The details
Auburn had hoped their wins over Florida, St. John's, and Arkansas - all recent national champions - would be enough to secure an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament. However, the selection committee ultimately left the Tigers out of the field of 68.
- Auburn's season ended on March 12, 2026.
- The 2026 NCAA Tournament bracket was revealed on March 15, 2026.
The players
Bruce Pearl
The former head coach of the Auburn men's basketball team, who is now part of the CBS broadcast team covering the NCAA Tournament selection show.
Auburn Tigers
The men's basketball team from Auburn University that failed to make the 2026 NCAA Tournament field despite a strong regular season.
What they’re saying
“You know Auburn beat three champions this year. They beat Florida, St. John's, and Arkansas,”
— Bruce Pearl, Former Auburn Head Coach
What’s next
The Auburn Tigers will now have to wait until next season to try and make the NCAA Tournament field again.
The takeaway
Auburn's exclusion from the 2026 NCAA Tournament despite their wins over several top programs highlights the challenges mid-major teams can face in earning at-large bids, even with a strong regular season resume.
