In college basketball, few coaches have flipped a struggling program quite like Bruce Pearl. The former Tennessee Vols and Oklahoma State Cowboys head coach has built a reputation as a hoops mastermind, and his time at Auburn University has been nothing short of impressive. But things looked different back in 2011.
Bruce Pearl faced a three-year show-cause penalty for lying to the NCAA, barring him from any “recruiting activities.” He couldn’t contact recruits, only evaluate talent from a distance. No school wanted to touch Pearl after his messy exit from Tennessee. It seemed like the end of the road for him. But it changed when Auburn took a leap of faith with.
Pearl was announced as the head coach of the Tigers in 2014. “I’m humbled and blessed to be back in the game that I love. I don’t know how long it will take, but it’s time to rebuild the Auburn basketball program, and bring it to a level of excellence so many of the other teams on campus enjoy,” said Pearl in his first press conference as a Tigers head coach.
NCAA, College League, USA Basketball: Auburn at Kentucky Mar 1, 2025 Lexington, Kentucky, USA Auburn Tigers head coach Bruce Pearl reacts after a missed free throw during the first half against the Kentucky Wildcats at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Lexington Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center Kentucky USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xJordanxPratherx 20250301_cec_li0_082
Six NCAA Tournament appearances, four SEC regular-season titles, two SEC Tournament championships, and a number 1 overall seed in this year’s Big Dance–it’s fair to say Bruce Pearl has more than delivered on his promise. As Auburn prepares to face Tom Izzo’s Michigan State for a spot in what would be Pearl’s second Final Four, it’s time to take a closer look at the woman who’s been by his side through it all! His support system–Brandy Pearl.
What is Brandy Pearl’s Family Background?
Brandy Rena Samuel was born and raised in the charming town of Sevierville, Tennessee. She grew up in a close-knit family, guided by the values her parents, Rena Kay Dean and Samuel Dean, instilled in her. She also shared a strong bond with her brother, Marc. But life has a way of surprising us. Before crossing paths with Bruce Pearl in 2008, Brandy was married to a Mr. Miller.
How Did Bruce Pearl and Brandy Pearl Meet?
Shortly after his 2008 divorce from Kim Shrigley, with whom he shares four children, Bruce Pearl found love again. This time it was Brandy. This time, it was with Brandy. A Tennessee native dating the Tennessee coach? Hardly surprising!
Bruce and Brandy’s romance blossomed in 2008, a pivotal year for both. Bruce was navigating the fallout of his Tennessee tenure, while Brandy was emerging from her own life transition after her divorce from Mr. Miller. Mutual friends introduced them at a Knoxville event, where their shared Tennessee roots sparked an immediate connection. By August 2009, less than a year after his divorce from Kim Shrigley was finalized, they married in a private ceremony surrounded by family. The connection was instant and it wasn’t long before they decided to make it official.
And thus began a journey of love, loyalty, and unshakeable support. Through every high and low, they’ve stood by each other’s side.
What is Megan York’s Background and Career?
Brandy Pearl shares a deep love for animals. Infact, her love for animals and wanting to work for them has turned her passion in a full blown business empire. The couple co-owns two pet-focused businesses: Grove Bark Inn, a luxury dog resort, and Zoom to Groom, a mobile pet grooming service. Together with their business partners, Steve and April Harper, they’ve created a haven for their furry friends!
“Brandy actually prefers dogs to people,” Bruce joked to OA Now. “…I have a love of pets, but I have a lot more love of wife. But it’s also a great investment in our community, and we love our community. This community is fantastic, we love living here, and I would love to coach at Auburn as long as they’ll have me.”
According to Brandy, it all started when she heard April talk about her and Steve’s dream to expand their mobile grooming business into a luxury grooming and boarding facility–something that would truly stand out from ordinary pet care. “I said, ‘Hmm, I want to be part of this,’” Brandy recalled. “It sounds like an interesting idea.” And just like that, a passion project was born!
How is Brandy and Bruce’s Life as a Couple?
Bruce and Brandy have been each other’s best friends since day 1. Brandy frequently expresses how grateful she is to have Bruce by her side. “I think God put him in my life because we just complement each other very well, we understand each other and we make it work. We’re a good team. I get excited and I get nervous, but I keep myself composed.”
Seven years ago I promised God to Love and Honor Brandy. She is my best and most trusted friend! Beautiful woman! pic.twitter.com/hoIiIUaNim
— Bruce Pearl (@coachbrucepearl) August 29, 2016
Bruce has also expressed his gratitude for having Brandy in his life. In a heartfelt Twitter post a few years back, he reflected on their wedding day, saying, “Seven years ago I promised God to Love and Honor Brandy. She is my best and most trusted friend! Beautiful woman!”
What is Brandy’s Role in Their Family?
Brandy is a loving stepmother to four children—daughters Jacqui and Leah, and sons Steven and Michael. Steven has followed in his father’s footsteps, serving as an assistant coach on Bruce’s Auburn staff, continuing the family’s basketball legacy.
Leah Pearl has also made her mark, working with Turner Sports and NBA on TNT. Bruce often shares his pride for his children on social media, emphasizing how much family means to him, despite the challenges of coaching. Through it all, Brandy is always there, supporting her step children as they carve their own paths.
What is Brandy’s Ethnicity
Not much is known about Brandy’s ethnicity and nationality. But it can be assumed that since she’s a Tennessee native she’s most likely an American.
What stands out is Brandy’s undeniable impact on Bruce Pearl’s life. Together, they’ve supported each other through thick and thin, built a thriving business empire, and worked hard to give back to their community. The Auburn community will forever be grateful for them. Long may Bruce Pearl’s reign continue at Auburn. Go Tigers!
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