Steven Pearl Biography, Age, Height, Career, Family and More

Steven Pearl is an American college basketball coach and former player, best known for working alongside his father, Bruce Pearl, at Auburn University. Starting as a walk-on player at Tennessee, he gradually transitioned into coaching and is now seen as one of the rising names in college basketball. With a strong focus on defense, recruiting, and team culture, Steven has been instrumental in Auburn’s success, including SEC titles and a Final Four appearance. he is recognized as a coach who combines family legacy with his own expertise.

Steven Pearl Wiki/Bio

Full NameSteven Richard Pearl
Date of BirthSeptember 14, 1987
Age38 years (as of 2025)
ProfessionCollege Basketball Coach, Former Player
HometownEvansville, Indiana, USA (raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
Current ResidenceAuburn, Alabama, USA
NationalityAmerican
Zodiac SignVirgo
Instagram@stevenpearl22

Physical Details

Height6’2″ (188 cm) (playing height)
WeightApprox. 200 lbs (91 kg) (playing weight)
Hair ColorDark Brown

Steven Pearl Early Life

Steven Pearl was born on September 14, 1987, in Evansville, Indiana. His father, Bruce Pearl, was already making a mark in coaching, winning a Division II national championship in 1995 at the University of Southern Indiana. The family later moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, when Bruce became head coach at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Growing up in this environment, Steven spent much of his childhood in gyms, around players, and learning the game from close quarters. Basketball became a natural part of his life, setting the stage for his future career.

Steven Pearl Education

Steven attended Nicolet High School in Glendale, Wisconsin, where he played basketball and earned all-state recognition. He later joined the University of Tennessee as a walk-on player, redshirting his first year before playing 101 games from 2006 to 2010. Though his stats were modest, the experience of playing under his father gave him valuable insights into the sport. After graduation, Steven worked in medical sales with Stryker Corporation for three years before returning to basketball through coaching.

Steven Pearl Family Details

Steven is the son of Bruce Pearl and Kim Pearl (née Shrigley). He is the eldest of three siblings, with brothers Adam and Micah also involved in basketball circles. The family’s Jewish heritage was reflected in Steven’s participation in the Maccabiah Games. While his professional life is public, he keeps his personal life private, with no confirmed details about marriage or children.

Steven Pearl with wife and children
Steven Pearl with wife and children (Photo Credit: instagram.com/stevenpearl22)

Steven Pearl Career Highlights

Steven’s coaching journey began at Auburn in 2014, where he started as an assistant strength and conditioning coach. By 2015, he was promoted to director of basketball operations, and in 2017, he moved into a full assistant coach role. His work focused on defensive strategies and recruiting, which proved vital for Auburn’s rise in the SEC.

He helped the Tigers reach the Final Four in 2019, win SEC championships, and attract top talent through the transfer portal. In 2021, he coached his first game as acting head coach, earning a win over North Alabama. By 2023, he became Auburn’s associate head coach, with responsibilities that included coordinating the defense and leading recruiting efforts.

With Bruce Pearl announcing his retirement in 2025, Steven is widely viewed as the natural successor, already having deep ties with the program and respect from players.

Career Milestones

MilestoneDetails
Auburn EntryAssistant strength coach (2014)
Director RoleDirector of basketball operations (2015–2017)
Assistant CoachOn-court assistant coach (2017)
Final Four RunKey part of 2019 NCAA semifinal run
Acting Head CoachFirst win vs. North Alabama (2021)
Associate Head CoachPromoted with defensive and recruiting role (2023)
Successor BuzzExpected to succeed Bruce Pearl at Auburn (2025)

Controversies

Steven Pearl has kept a clean reputation in his professional journey. Apart from the spotlight of being Bruce Pearl’s son, he has avoided controversies and is respected for his focus and work ethic.

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