The Tigers missed the NCAA tournament for the first time since 2021, but earned a nice consolation prize by winning the program’s first NIT championship. It was a good end to a frustrating season, as Pearl enters his first offseason as head coach.

In an interview with AL.com, Auburn athletic director John Cohen called the NIT wins “significant” as the Tigers look to build going into Pearl’s second season.

John Cohen offered a measured but optimistic assessment of Steven Pearl following his first season as head coach of the Auburn Tigers men’s basketball, emphasizing growth, resilience, and a foundation that could support long-term success. Stepping into a high-pressure role in the competitive landscape of the SEC, Pearl faced immediate expectations, and Cohen’s review reflected both an understanding of those demands and an appreciation for how the season unfolded.

Cohen highlighted that the transition into a head coaching position is never seamless, particularly in a conference as physically and tactically demanding as the SEC. For Pearl, the first season was as much about establishing identity and culture as it was about wins and losses. According to Cohen, the program showed flashes of the intensity and discipline that Auburn fans have come to expect, even if consistency was still a work in progress. That balance between patience and ambition was a central theme in his evaluation.

One of the key positives Cohen pointed to was Pearl’s ability to connect with his players. In modern college basketball, where roster turnover is frequent due to the transfer portal and early NBA departures, building trust quickly is essential. Cohen noted that players responded to Pearl’s leadership style, buying into his system and showing effort on both ends of the floor. That kind of buy-in, he suggested, is often a precursor to more tangible success in subsequent seasons.

Cohen also acknowledged the challenges that came with roster construction. Like many programs across the country, Auburn had to navigate injuries, departures, and the constant reshuffling that defines today’s game. Pearl’s ability to adapt, experiment with lineups, and keep the team competitive was seen as a positive indicator of his coaching acumen. While the results may not have fully matched expectations, the underlying progress did not go unnoticed within the athletic department.

Another area Cohen emphasized was player development. Over the course of the season, several Auburn players showed noticeable improvement, whether in scoring efficiency, defensive awareness, or overall confidence. Cohen credited Pearl and his staff for fostering that growth, pointing out that development is a critical component of sustaining success in college basketball. Programs that consistently improve their players tend to build deeper, more resilient teams over time.

At the same time, Cohen did not shy away from acknowledging areas that need improvement. Consistency, particularly in high-pressure situations, was identified as a key focus moving forward. Close games and late-season performances often define a team’s trajectory, and Auburn experienced its share of ups and downs in those moments. Cohen expressed confidence that with another year of experience, Pearl would be better equipped to guide the team through those challenges.

Looking ahead, Cohen’s overall tone suggested belief in the direction of the program. He emphasized continuity, recruiting, and player retention as crucial factors that could help Auburn take the next step. With a full offseason to build on the lessons of year one, Pearl will have the opportunity to refine his approach and strengthen the team’s identity.

Ultimately, Cohen’s review painted a picture of cautious optimism. While the first season under Steven Pearl may not have been flawless, it provided a foundation upon which the Auburn Tigers men’s basketball can continue to build. In a league where margins are thin and expectations are high, that foundation could prove to be the most important takeaway of all.