Former Auburn men’s basketball coach Bruce Pearl has joined CBS Sports as a college basketball analyst, the network announced Thursday. The move comes just one month after Pearl stepped down from his head coaching position at the university.
During his successful tenure with the Tigers, Pearl compiled a 246-125 record and led the program to two Final Four appearances. Upon his departure, he transitioned into an ambassador role for the team while his son took over as head coach.
In his new position, Pearl will contribute to CBS Sports’ and TNT Sports’ joint coverage of the NCAA tournament, providing analysis for both game broadcasts and in the studio.
Pearl’s transition follows recent controversy, including comments from ESPN host Michael Wilbon, who said he hoped Pearl was pressured to leave Auburn because he had “become a divisive person.” Pearl has been a vocal political commentator, particularly on the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Addressing the criticism, Pearl stated he was not forced out and rejected the “divisive” label. “I’ve tried to bring people together my entire life,” he said recently. “I love Auburn. I love the opportunity now to be able to do some things for faith and family and our country, to be an advocate for Israel, an advocate for education. I’m looking forward to being able to do those things while my son is winning basketball games.”
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