Teary-eyed Bruce Pearl explains his emotions as Auburn secures 2024 SEC Tournament Championship

Throughout Bruce Pearl’s coaching career, his father Bernie was by his side. He was there when his son led Auburn to SEC titles in 2018 and 2022, but this year was a tough one for Bruce.

Bernie Pearl passed away in August after a brief illness, which meant Bruce went through the 2023-24 season without his biggest supporter for the first time. Pearl still tried to instill the values his father taught him even after losing him, and he kept faith in his Auburn team as the Tigers took a 10-5 record in SEC play into March.

Then, the Tigers heated up – and Sunday, they brought home their first SEC Tournament championship since 2019. Pearl’s emotions started to show as time ticked away, knowing he was closing in on a title without his father there to cheer him on.

In his postgame interview with Marty Smith, he couldn’t hold back the tears anymore.

"I lost my dad in August. He was my biggest fan."

An emotional Bruce Pearl after Auburn wins the SEC Tournament Final. pic.twitter.com/NrY15szhYr

— The Sporting News (@sportingnews) March 17, 2024

“I lost my dad in August,” Pearl said. “He was my biggest fan. This is for these kids, but how about the way Auburn showed up today? But for me, I’ve got to thank my father. I’m just happy for [the] players. We played great. Florida’s a terrific opponent.

“That’s why I’m so emotional. I wish he was here.”

Many of Pearl’s values as a coach came from his father, and he tries to pass those along to his players. He pushes them in practice to be the best they can be as they work toward a championship – something his dad dad growing up, as well.

“He worked hard,” Pearl said. “My dad worked six days a week, he prayed on the seventh. We didn’t have a lot, but we had enough. I thought my dad was the best. I wish every kid had that, and that’s one of the reasons why I’m hard on these guys.

“My dad held me to a high standard. And I hold these guys to a high standard.”

Pearl’s efforts paid off. Auburn defeated Florida 86-67 in the SEC Tournament championship game and will now turn its attention to March Madness. On3’s James Fletcher III projected the Tigers to be a No. 3 seed in his updated Bracketology after their win over Florida, and they’ll find out what the committee thinks Sunday night during the Selection Show. Auburn brings plenty of momentum into the tournament, as well, winning six straight games – including three in Nashville – heading into the dance.

For Bruce Pearl, there’s even more motivation heading into March Madness as he tries to honor his dad’s memory.