Bruce Pearl On Tennessee Basketball’s Role In NCAA Notice Of Allegations

Bruce Pearl found himself charged with impermissible contact with recruits in an NCAA letter of allegations published Wednesday by the University of Tennessee. There’s nothing particularly new in the findings, as the SEC has already punished him for all of it.

But the NCAA is likely to exact an additional round of punishments, possibly up to branding Pearl as guilty of unethical conduct. After receiving the letter, which also alleges fault with Lane Kiffin’s time as Tennessee football coach, Pearl commented:

The receipt of today’s notice brings us one step closer to a final resolution in this matter. Throughout this process, we have recognized that we made significant mistakes, and we look forward to concluding this matter with the NCAA.

The penalties imposed on our program to date have been severe, but I want to commend our student-athletes and staff for staying focused and working through these potential distractions. The support of our fans and administration has been amazing and appreciated by me and my entire family, and reminds me every day why I have the best job in the nation. I appreciate the opportunity to serve the University of Tennessee, and everyone in our basketball program is focused on finding ways to improve every day.