Auburn basketball is at a crossroads after a tough season, and former player Wendell Green isn’t holding back on his thoughts about what needs to change. Following a 96-84 loss to Alabama, which completed a season sweep and dashed Auburn's NCAA Tournament hopes, Green took to Twitter with a straightforward message: “Clear house.”
Auburn’s athletic director, John Cohen, isn't making any immediate moves regarding head coach Steven Pearl, but there’s no denying the program needs a fresh start. Auburn began the season with high expectations, ranked in the top 25, only to miss the NCAA Tournament for the first time in five years.
The loss to Alabama was a hard pill to swallow, with the final score not fully reflecting the game’s one-sided nature. Auburn wraps up the season with a 16-15 record, going 7-11 in SEC play, which is far from the heights reached under Bruce Pearl's leadership.
Steven Pearl’s debut season as head coach has been rocky. Discipline issues and significant losses to top non-conference teams have plagued the Tigers, and recent weeks have only added to their woes. Pearl, at 38, has faced criticism for publicly calling out players, yet he’s been given another year to prove his mettle.
The pressure is on for Season 2. If Steven Pearl doesn’t turn things around, the situation could become even more tense, especially considering how he was thrust into the role. His father’s sudden retirement left the program with little choice but to appoint Steven, a move that’s been scrutinized, particularly after Bruce Pearl admitted on national radio that nepotism played a role in his son’s hiring.
Auburn fans are left hoping for a turnaround. The coming season will be crucial for the program's direction and Steven Pearl’s future.