Auburn Hoops Dead? Rumors Are Swirling That Bruce Pearl Is Stepping Down

Image: AP

By Cody McClure

Nothing is confirmed yet. But the rumors are swirling.

There is A LOT of chatter online currently that Bruce Pearl is retiring as Auburn’s basketball coach and may be interested in a political career.

The online rumors made their way to local radio this morning as well.

Tony Basilio discussed the situation on his radio show that airs on FOX Sports Knoxville from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. every weekday.

Just two weeks ago CBS Sports reported that Pearl didn’t see himself coaching much longer.

As far as running for Senator, Pearl said at the time:

"I have not answered the question because I've never announced I was running for senate, have I? … So, how do you answer the question whether you are or whether you aren't because I never said I was.

"It's something I thought a great deal about, but obviously I'm here today and I'm in practice and I've got practice tomorrow."

Doesn’t exactly sound like a profound statement that he wants to continue coaching Auburn.

It will be interesting to see how this ends up.

"I think it's kind of a balance of life, of time, of work," Pearl said. "I love Auburn. I truly do. ... Part of the thing is, I also want to [retire] when I'm on top of my game."

Another key element to the RUMORS is that STEVEN PEARL would potentially be taking over as the Auburn coach.

We’ll see about that one.