Auburn Coach Argues One SEC Loss Shouldn't Count Against March Madness Bid

Steven Pearl says the Tigers' overall resume should be viewed differently due to an ineligible player in a key loss.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Auburn head coach Steven Pearl believes the Tigers' 16-14 record should be viewed more favorably by the NCAA Tournament selection committee, arguing that their loss to Alabama on February 7th should be discounted because Alabama's Charles Bediako, who had a significant impact in that game, is no longer eligible. Pearl suggests that with that loss removed from their record, Auburn would be 16-13 and firmly in the NCAA Tournament conversation.

Why it matters

The ongoing debate over how the NCAA Tournament selection committee weighs roster changes and player availability is still a work-in-progress. Pearl's argument could carry weight as Auburn fights to secure an at-large bid to the Big Dance.

The details

In the February 7th loss to Alabama, Bediako, a former NBA player, finished with 12 points on 5-of-5 shooting with three rebounds. His strong performance was a key factor in Alabama's four-point victory over Auburn. With Bediako no longer eligible, Pearl believes that loss should be viewed differently and not count against Auburn's overall resume.

  • The loss to Alabama occurred on February 7, 2026.
  • Bediako is no longer eligible to play for Alabama.

The players

Steven Pearl

The first-year head coach of the Auburn Tigers men's basketball team.

Charles Bediako

A former NBA player who was ineligible to play for Alabama after the February 7th game against Auburn.

Tom Hart

An ESPN broadcaster who relayed Pearl's comments during the broadcast.

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What they’re saying

“With the news that the committee would take into consideration that Charles Bediako played in the loss at home, Then what are we talking about? We're 16-13. We're good. We should be in.”

— Steven Pearl, Head Coach, Auburn Tigers (ESPN)

What’s next

The NCAA Tournament selection committee will have to weigh Pearl's argument as they determine Auburn's fate for the Big Dance.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate over how the NCAA Tournament selection committee should evaluate a team's resume, particularly when roster changes and player eligibility issues arise during the season. Pearl's plea for leniency on Auburn's record could set a precedent for how the committee handles similar situations in the future.