Auburn’s Bruce Pearl and St. John’s Rick Pitino Named Coaches of the Year at NCAA Final Four.
Houston, TX — Auburn University’s head coach Bruce Pearl and St. John’s University’s Rick Pitino were jointly honored as the 2025 Men’s College Basketball Coaches of the Year, an accolade announced by The Associated Press during the NCAA Men’s Final Four festivities on Friday.
The announcement comes after both coaches led their teams to remarkable seasons, overcoming significant challenges and demonstrating exceptional leadership. Pearl’s Auburn Tigers were a dominant force in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), while Pitino’s Red Storm enjoyed a renaissance season in the Big East, securing an unexpected spot in the NCAA Tournament’s later rounds.
Athletic Director John Cohen of Auburn, in a show of deep admiration for Pearl’s achievements, made an unexpected gesture. Cohen promised Coach Pearl a “great gift” as a token of gratitude for the coach’s unwavering commitment to the program and the Tigers’ outstanding performance throughout the season. Though the specifics of the gift remain under wraps, it’s clear that Cohen wants to ensure his coach knows just how much his hard work and leadership have meant to the university and its basketball program.
Pearl, who has long been admired for his energy and passion on the sidelines, guided Auburn to an impressive record this season, with standout wins and a strong presence in the postseason. His ability to mold young talent into cohesive, competitive teams earned him the AP honor, marking another milestone in his already successful coaching career.
Meanwhile, Pitino’s resurgence at St. John’s brought the storied program back into national conversation. Known for his legendary success with Louisville, Pitino’s coaching prowess has quickly reinvigorated the Red Storm, making them one of the most exciting teams to watch this season.
The joint award recognition reflects the evolution of college basketball, where coaches who blend tradition, modern strategies, and player development have become key figures in shaping their programs’ futures.
Both coaches were recognized for their individual contributions to the sport, but it was the way they built their teams—instilling discipline, confidence, and resilience—that made them stand out. As both programs look ahead to next season, there is no doubt that Pearl and Pitino will continue to be key figures in shaping the future of college basketball.
With the 2025 NCAA Men’s Final Four now in full swing, the spotlight is firmly on the legends who continue to define the sport, both on the court and in the locker room. As for Auburn’s Bruce Pearl, his upcoming “great gift” from John Cohen remains a topic of intrigue and celebration among Tiger fans and the college basketball community alike.
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