Auburn basketball is losing a vital piece of its coaching foundation—and not to another bench.
Associate head coach Chad Prewett announced Wednesday he is stepping away from coaching altogether to pursue a new calling in ministry.
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After 30 years in the game, including two Final Four appearances and five SEC titles alongside Bruce Pearl, Prewett said the decision came after deep reflection, prayer, and a sense of peace.
“After an incredible journey and 30 unforgettable years in coaching, I’ve made the decision to step away from my lifelong dream of coaching at Auburn University to pursue a new calling in ministry through UniteUS and other ministry opportunities,” Prewett wrote in a statement shared to social media.
The announcement comes just weeks after Auburn’s run to the Final Four and during a period of heightened expectations around the program.
While Bruce Pearl remains firmly in place, losing Prewett—his longtime right-hand man—leaves a gap in experience and leadership that won’t be easy to fill.
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Prewett’s resume is one of the most decorated in Auburn history.
He was instrumental in the program’s climb under Pearl, helping guide the Tigers to sustained success in the SEC and national relevance, capped off by two Final Four appearances.
But for Prewett, it was always about more than basketball.
Auburn Tigers head coach Bruce Pearl talks to guard Tahaad PettifordAaron Doster-Imagn Images
“The relationships I’ve built with my brothers on this staff and the young men I’ve had the privilege to coach will remain the most cherished part of my time here,” he wrote.
He also thanked his family, particularly his wife Tonya, and made it clear that while he’s stepping away from the hardwood, his loyalty remains intact.
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“I will always bleed orange and blue. Once an Auburn Tiger, always an Auburn Tiger.”
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