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Auburn

Bruce Pearl looking for one more 'impact' player, feels 'pretty good' after Final Four run

Justin Hokansonby: Justin Hokanson04/23/25_JHokanson
Bruce Pearl (Photo by USA Today)
Bruce Pearl (Photo by USA Today)

AUBURN — Bruce Pearl was a guest on the Auburn radio broadcast of the baseball game against Georgia Tech, and on the telecast on the SEC Network, on Tuesday night.

There, Pearl confirmed what we have reported here via the Basketball Roster Tracker, which is, “we’re probably looking for one more impact player” in the transfer portal. “I think someone else on the inside,” Pearl commented.

That’s what the Tracker has indicated since Saturday night. Auburn will look for one more “big man.”

Auburn has already signed KeShawn Murphy, Emeka Opurum, Elyjah Freeman, Kevin Overton and Keyshawn Hall from the transfer portal. The Tigers already had Simon Walker, Kaden Magwood, Sebastian Williams-Adams signed from the high school ranks, and Abdul Bashir from JUCO.

If Tahaad Pettiford returns, that will take the Tigers to 10 scholarship players. Add in one more impact “big man” from the portal, and Auburn will be at 11 and likely call it a day.

Chad Baker-Mazara is still sitting out there, having not chosen a new school after entering the transfer portal. Auburn recruited around Baker-Mazara with the additions of Overton and Freeman. Could Baker-Mazara return? That remains to be seen. If he left, Baker-Mazara would owe Auburn a specific amount of money after having signed a NIL contract previously.

Pearl also mentioned it’s possible basketball could increase to 15 scholarships, above the traditional 13. So, more spots could be filled by Division II players or walk-ons.

Pearl also talked about his career longevity, saying he feels better now than he did a year ago, and that’s after a Final Four run and having to rebuilding nearly his entire roster.

“I was tired at the end of last year. I was thinking I don’t know how many more years I have left,” Pearl said. “I actually feel pretty good. Getting in the portal is difficult because it’s become so transactional…”

Pearl said “coaching is ministerial,” so he still enjoys that part of it very much.

Pearl went on to say Auburn provides a great opportunity for student-athletes to get not just basketball, but mission trips, community service, and encouragement in their faith journey, among other things.

“If you want that stuff, this is a great place and you’re going to love it here,” Pearl said.

“I expect a lot from my players on and off the court. We don’t always get it, but that’s my culture. In the transfer portal, we want great kids, guys that want to work hard.”

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