Major Controversies Surrounding Bruce Pearl: A Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Bruce Pearl.

Bruce Pearl is a prominent American college basketball coach, most recently leading the Auburn Tigers for 11 seasons. Prior to Auburn, he served as head coach at Tennessee, Milwaukee, and Southern Indiana. A career highlight was leading Southern Indiana to a Division II national championship in 1995, earning him Division II Coach of the Year honors from the National Association of Basketball Coaches.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1988: Recruiting Scandal Involving Deon Thomas

During the 1988 basketball season, Bruce Pearl, then an assistant coach at Iowa, was involved in a recruiting scandal concerning Deon Thomas and the University of Illinois. Pearl recorded a phone conversation with Thomas, which led to an NCAA investigation into alleged recruiting violations by Illinois.

2005: Deon Thomas's Interview

In a 2005 interview, Deon Thomas referred to Bruce Pearl as a 'snake,' reflecting lingering resentment over the recruiting scandal from 1988.

September 4, 2010: Recruiting restrictions imposed

Starting September 4, 2010, as part of sanctions for NCAA violations, Bruce Pearl's off-campus recruiting was completely restricted.

September 10, 2010: Pearl Acknowledges NCAA Violations

On September 10, 2010, Bruce Pearl admitted to NCAA violations in the Aaron Craft affair and lying about it. Tennessee imposed sanctions including a $1.5 million salary reduction over 5 years and recruiting restrictions.

November 20, 2010: SEC Suspends Pearl for Eight Games

On November 20, 2010, the SEC ordered Bruce Pearl to sit out Tennessee's first eight SEC games as part of the sanctions for NCAA violations.

March 21, 2011: Tennessee Fires Bruce Pearl

On March 21, 2011, Tennessee fired Bruce Pearl after finding out about additional NCAA violations and a player's violation of the school's substance abuse policy.

August 23, 2011: Pearl Receives Show-Cause Penalty

On August 23, 2011, Bruce Pearl was given a three-year show-cause penalty by the NCAA for lying during an investigation, effective until August 23, 2014.