The Miami (OH) Redhawks are the only remaining undefeated team this season with a record of 29-0. As the NCAA Tournament approaches, athletic director David Sayler called out former Auburn coach Bruce Pearl on social media.
@coachbrucepearl u are flat out wrong about @MiamiOH_BBall when u say we would finish last in the Big East. The disrespect is awful and u should not be near a TV studio covering this sport when u show your true colors! Even slipped in a "we" when talking about Auburn, nice work!
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— David Sayler (@MiamiOH_DSayler) March 2, 2026
The post was made in response to Pearl’s criticism of the Redhawks and his stance that they shouldn’t automatically have a spot in the March Madness tournament if they fail to win the MAC Championship.
“Here’s the deal. Are we going to select the 68 most deserving teams? Or are we going to select the 68 best teams?” Pearl said. “If we’re selecting the 68 best teams, then Miami (Ohio) is going to have to win their tournament to qualify as a champion, because as an at-large, they are not one of the best teams in the country, and that’s going to be a difficult choice for the committee.”
He went on to make a case for Auburn, the team he last coached and is now coached by his son Steven.
The debate has made waves in the college basketball world as many fans believe Pearl is biased towards his son and former team.
If the Redhawks ultimately get an at-large big, it’s very possible they could strip the spot from the Tigers, who are 15-14 on the season.
James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
