In a surprising turn of events, Steven Pearl, son of Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl, openly criticized the team’s performance following their victory against Alabama State. Despite securing a win, the Tigers’ effort on the court left much to be desired, and Pearl didn’t hold back in expressing his frustration.
Auburn’s victory over Alabama State, which on paper should have been a comfortable win, was marred by sloppy play and inconsistent efforts from key players. While the team managed to come out on top, the performance left observers questioning their focus and commitment. Steven Pearl, who has been an outspoken figure in the Auburn basketball scene, voiced his concerns regarding the team’s lack of intensity and sharpness.
Among the players, Pearl specifically singled out Johni Broome and Chad Baker-Mazara for their underwhelming contributions. Broome, who had been one of the Tigers’ standout players earlier in the season, seemed to struggle throughout the game. His performance lacked the usual fluidity, with missed shots and defensive lapses that disrupted Auburn’s rhythm. Similarly, Chad Baker-Mazara, a key piece for Auburn’s offense, was also far from his best. His shooting was erratic, and his overall presence on the court felt muted compared to his typical high-energy performances.
Steven Pearl’s comments were not just about the individual shortcomings of Broome and Baker-Mazara but also reflected broader concerns about the team’s mentality. “You can’t just show up and expect to win because the other team is inferior,” Pearl stated after the game. “You have to bring it every single time, and today, we didn’t.”
While Auburn’s win against Alabama State may appear straightforward in the final score, Steven Pearl’s critical remarks highlight the deeper issues at play. For a team with high aspirations this season, complacency and a lack of focus could prove costly as they face tougher challenges in the coming games. This game served as a wake-up call—one that underscores the importance of staying sharp, regardless of the opponent. Auburn will need to heed these lessons if they want to compete at the highest level throughout the rest of the season.
