Bruce Pearl Speaking Fee: $20,000 to $30,000

Bruce Pearl is the head coach of the Auburn Tigers men's basketball team and the winningest coach in the program's history. Born in Boston in 1960, Pearl's path to coaching was unconventional. A shoulder injury in high school ended his playing days early, but he stayed close to the game by serving as a student manager at Boston College. That experience ignited a coaching career that has spanned over four decades. Pearl began his head coaching journey at Southern Indiana, where he led the team to a Division II national championship in 1995. He later found success at Milwaukee and Tennessee before arriving at Auburn in 2014. Under his leadership, Auburn has reached new heights, including its first-ever Final Four appearance in 2019 and a return in 2025. The Tigers have also secured multiple SEC titles and achieved their first No. 1 national ranking during his tenure. In 2025, Pearl was named co-recipient of the Associated Press Men's College Basketball Coach of the Year award, marking the first tie in the award's history. His coaching style emphasizes gratitude and resilience, often recruiting players who are overlooked but eager to prove themselves. This approach has fostered a culture of humility and hard work within the program. Beyond the court, Pearl is deeply involved in philanthropic efforts. His AUTLIVE initiative and annual golf tournament have raised over $1 million each for cancer patients and children's health causes. As a proud member of the Jewish community, he founded the Jewish Coaches Association and has been recognized for his advocacy and leadership. Pearl's journey from a student manager to a two-time Final Four coach is a testament to his dedication, adaptability, and passion for the game. His impact on Auburn basketball and the broader community continues to resonate, making him a respected figure both on and off the court.