Auburn Coach Advocates for Hostage Release Amid NCAA Tournament Preparations

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Auburn basketball coach Bruce Pearl addressed a pressing humanitarian issue during a news conference on Thursday, just one day before his team’s NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 game against Michigan. Pearl called for the release of Edan Alexander, the last living American hostage held by Hamas.

Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli-American soldier, was captured during Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7. In a recent statement, Hamas indicated it would release Alexander along with the remains of four other hostages if Israel recommitted to a stalled ceasefire agreement. Pearl’s comments come during the intensity of tournament play, highlighting the intersection between sports and urgent global concerns.

“It’s not political. It’s survival,” Pearl said, defending his decision to speak on the issue. “I don’t want to take away from Auburn. I asked my players’ permission to mention Edan Alexander’s name during the press conference.”

Pearl, who is Jewish, expressed that this was a rare moment for him to address political matters publicly. He noted he hadn’t done this on the podium in the last two or three years, since the Israel-Iran conflict had flared up.

While Pearl has been clear in his support for political figures such as former President Donald Trump, he also encourages his players to express their beliefs. “Auburn University does a great job of allowing us to really just live as Americans and exercise our First Amendment rights,” center Dylan Cardwell stated. “Bruce Pearl has that same right to talk about what he’s passionate about.”

Senior forward-center Johni Broome echoed Cardwell’s sentiments, respecting Pearl’s approach to discussing sensitive issues. “He asked us how we felt about it. We’re behind our coach doing what he loves,” Broome said, adding that discussions on social issues are important in their team culture.

Auburn has enjoyed a remarkable season, posting a record of 30-5 and winning the Southeastern Conference regular-season championship. The Tigers held the No. 1 ranking in the AP Top 25 for several weeks before Duke took the lead. Broome, who is averaging 18.9 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.1 assists, has been a key player for the team’s success. As they prepare to face Michigan, Pearl’s advocacy highlights the balance between sports, personal beliefs, and pressing global issues.