As Alabama prepares for its first showdown against Auburn this season, a familiar yet different face awaits head coach Nate Oats on the sideline. Auburn recently replaced Bruce Pearl with his son, Steven Pearl, as the head coach. They will get the homecourt advantage against the Crimson Tide.
When Oats was asked about seeing a younger Pearl on the sideline, he shrugged the moment with a grin.
“Obviously, they kept it in the family,” Oats said. “He took over for his father. His father was extremely successful. Most successful coach in the history of Auburn basketball. Why change a whole lot?”
Oats had a lot of compliments for the young head coach, who has shown support for Charles Bediako. Although he thinks Steven Pearl is well spoken, well thought-out, and well-versed with the business of college basketball coaching, Oats jokingly highlighted a few significant differences that set him apart from his dad. He said:
“He’s younger than his dad. He’s got different viewpoints, probably a little more laidback. Maybe he’s less into politics at this stage of his life, I’d say, at least from what I know of him.”
Bruce Pearl has been the winningest head coach in Auburn’s history, which leaves pretty big shoes for Steven to fill.
Steven Pearl Roots For Alabama Center Charles Bediako
While most college basketball coaches are protesting, Steven Pearl has shown surprising support for Charles Bediako ahead of Auburn vs. Alabama. Bediako’s eligibility remains in limbo due to his previous professional stint in the NBA G-League.
A Friday hearing will determine if he can continue playing the rest of the season in the NCAA. Pearl noted the difficult position regarding the young athlete’s future and admitted he is almost rooting for the center to be available on Saturday.
“If he gets denied, what does he do? I hope the decision makers in that room have thought through that because are we setting this kid up for failure by bringing him back?” Pearl said.“I’m almost rooting for him to be able to play on Saturday, because I don’t want him to be in a situation where he’s got to make some real difficult decisions.”
Pearl focused on the human element of the legal battle, questioning the potential consequences for Bediako if the injunction is denied. He acknowledged that while the midseason addition of a professional is unusual, Alabama is working within current legal guidelines. He further highlighted how the big man would provide the physical dimension that the Crimson Tide previously lacked.
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