Documentary Review: “The Auburn Tigers: Rise to Glory” – A Netflix Exclusive on Coach Bruce Pearl’s Journey

Netflix’s latest sports documentary, The Auburn Tigers: Rise to Glory, takes audiences on an exhilarating ride through the thrilling and often challenging basketball journey of the Auburn Tigers, following the career trajectory of their head coach, Bruce Pearl. The documentary captures the highs, lows, and transformative moments of a college basketball program that rose to national prominence under Pearl’s leadership. At the heart of this documentary is not only the success of the Auburn basketball team but also the inspiring personal story of Coach Pearl, who, in 2025, was named NCAA Coach of the Year, solidifying his place as one of the most influential figures in modern college basketball.

A Legacy in the Making

When Bruce Pearl arrived at Auburn University in 2014, the Auburn Tigers were struggling. The program had been overshadowed by other Southeastern Conference (SEC) giants, and the team’s national recognition was minimal. The documentary opens with archival footage of Auburn’s basketball struggles, with dismal records and a fanbase longing for a leader who could turn things around. Enter Bruce Pearl, a coach with a reputation for building winning programs and a larger-than-life personality that could ignite passion in players and fans alike.

In The Auburn Tigers: Rise to Glory, Pearl’s approach to rebuilding the program is highlighted as one of the key aspects of his success. The documentary shows Pearl’s unorthodox coaching methods, his ability to connect with players, and his knack for recruiting talent that fit his style of high-paced, aggressive basketball. Through interviews with former and current players, fellow coaches, and analysts, viewers gain insight into how Pearl’s leadership helped Auburn’s basketball team evolve into a powerhouse within the SEC.

The Turning Point: The 2019 Final Four Run

A pivotal moment in the documentary is the deep dive into Auburn’s unexpected and thrilling journey to the 2019 NCAA Final Four. This was the season that put Auburn basketball on the map, garnering national attention and respect. The documentary doesn’t shy away from the challenges faced throughout the tournament, particularly the incredible upsets and heart-stopping moments. With interviews from players such as Jared Harper, Bryce Brown, and Chuma Okeke, viewers relive the drama of Auburn’s March Madness run, including Okeke’s unfortunate injury in the Elite Eight and the emotional toll it took on the team.

The film does an excellent job of balancing game footage with behind-the-scenes moments, capturing the tension and determination of the team. One of the most poignant scenes comes when Bruce Pearl, visibly emotional, addresses his players after their Final Four appearance, telling them how proud he is of their efforts, regardless of the outcome. It was a moment that underscored the true heart of the team – not just the desire to win, but the bond that had formed between the coach and his players.

For many fans, the 2019 Final Four appearance remains a defining achievement in Auburn basketball history, and the documentary gives it the reverence it deserves. The impact of that run is still felt in Auburn’s basketball program, providing a foundation for future success and a sense of pride for the entire university community.

Building a Culture of Success

As the documentary progresses, it shifts from the team’s performance on the court to the overall culture that Coach Pearl built around Auburn basketball. One of the most striking aspects of the film is its exploration of how Pearl created a family-like atmosphere within the program. Interviews with former players, some who were recruited by Pearl and others who had been at Auburn before his arrival, reveal how his leadership style changed the dynamics of the team.

The film paints a picture of a coach who genuinely cares about his players’ lives both on and off the court. He is portrayed not just as a strategist but as a mentor and a source of strength for his athletes. This sense of trust and camaraderie is evident when players speak about the emotional and motivational speeches that Pearl would often deliver before crucial games or difficult stretches of the season. His ability to inspire his players – to push them beyond their limits while also nurturing their personal growth – is one of the central themes explored in the documentary.

There’s also a fascinating section that delves into how Pearl cultivated the Auburn fanbase. Known for his fiery passion on the sidelines and his “Pearl’s Pit” mantra, he helped transform Auburn’s basketball program into one of the most exciting and beloved teams in the nation. His vibrant personality, coupled with his ability to get the fans invested, played a critical role in creating an electric atmosphere inside Auburn Arena.

The documentary highlights some of the most passionate moments during Auburn’s rise to prominence, including the famous “Bruce Pearl chants” that reverberated through the stands, adding an extra layer of intensity to home games. These moments highlight not only the players’ dedication but the communal spirit that Pearl cultivated, one that extended beyond the locker room and into the fanbase.

Coach of the Year: Recognition and Reflection

With Bruce Pearl’s recent 2025 Coach of the Year award, the documentary takes on a more reflective tone, celebrating his accomplishments while looking ahead to the future of Auburn basketball. This part of the film provides a fitting conclusion to the narrative, capturing Pearl’s humble gratitude in accepting the award, while also emphasizing his ongoing commitment to the team and his players.

The recognition serves as a validation of the years of hard work, dedication, and the profound impact Pearl has had on Auburn basketball. However, the documentary wisely avoids portraying this award as the culmination of his journey. Instead, it leaves viewers with the sense that this is just one chapter in a much larger story, one that continues to unfold.

One of the most compelling moments in this section comes when Pearl reflects on the evolution of the program and the relationships he has built over the years. He speaks candidly about the challenges he faced – the doubters, the scandals that affected his reputation in previous coaching stints, and the adversity he overcame to lead Auburn to the highest echelons of college basketball.

The documentary includes footage of Pearl celebrating with his family, friends, and players after his Coach of the Year win, providing a personal touch that makes the viewer feel as though they are right there with him in the moment of triumph. It’s a rare look behind the public persona of a coach and into the man who has become a beloved figure in the Auburn community.

Impact on the Auburn Community and the Future of the Program

Ultimately, The Auburn Tigers: Rise to Glory is more than just a documentary about basketball. It’s about community, resilience, and the power of leadership. The film draws attention to how Pearl’s influence has extended far beyond the basketball court, shaping the identity of the Auburn Tigers and inspiring a new generation of players.

The future of the Auburn basketball program looks bright, and the documentary underscores the importance of maintaining the legacy that Bruce Pearl has built. As new recruits are brought into the fold, Pearl’s coaching philosophy and his values continue to guide the team. The film ends with a look at the future of the program, teasing what fans can expect in the seasons to come, and ensuring that the Auburn Tigers will remain a force to be reckoned with in college basketball.