AUBURN, Ala. —

Auburn University introduced Steven Pearl as its new men’s basketball coach on Wednesday, promoting the longtime assistant and son of outgoing coach Bruce Pearl to lead the program into its next era.

Steven Pearl, who has spent 11 years on staff at Auburn, called the promotion the “opportunity of a lifetime” during his introductory news conference.

Watch the official first speech above.

He began his career with the Tigers in 2014 as an assistant strength coach before working his way up to director of operations, assistant coach, associate head coach and defensive coordinator.

“I’ve been preparing for this moment my entire life,” Pearl said. “I fully understand the weight of this opportunity. I embrace it with gratitude, humility and resolve.”

The younger Pearl credit

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