Auburn Bids Farewell to Coach Prewett as He Steps Away After a Decade to Pursue Ministry: A Legacy of Leadership, Faith, and 30 Years in Coaching
AUBURN, AL – After more than three decades of dedicated service to the game of basketball, Coach Steven Prewett has announced his decision to step away from the Auburn Tigers men’s basketball program to pursue a new calling in ministry. The longtime coach, mentor, and leader leaves behind a legacy marked by faith, passion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the development of student-athletes both on and off the court.
Coach Prewett has been an integral part of Auburn’s coaching staff for over a decade, serving in various assistant coaching and support roles under head coach Bruce Pearl. Known for his calm demeanor, strategic insight, and servant leadership, Prewett was more than just a coach — he was a cornerstone of Auburn’s basketball culture and a guiding influence for countless players.
In a heartfelt message shared by the program on social media, Auburn expressed immense gratitude:
“Thank you, Coach 🧡💙 Coach Prewett will be stepping away from our program to pursue a future in ministry. He leaves a legacy of over 30 years in coaching and over a decade with Auburn.”
Coach Prewett’s decision comes after much prayer and reflection. According to close sources within the program, this move is not a goodbye to Auburn as a community, but rather a transition into a new phase of service rooted in faith — a value that has long guided his life and career.
A Legacy Built on Character and Care
Before arriving at Auburn, Coach Prewett had already built an impressive résumé, coaching at both the high school and collegiate levels, including successful stints at Southern Indiana and other programs. His deep understanding of the game, combined with a genuine heart for mentorship, made him a natural fit for Auburn’s family-first culture.
Throughout his time on The Plains, Prewett played a crucial role in the Tigers’ rise as a national contender, contributing to numerous NCAA tournament appearances, including Auburn’s historic Final Four run in 2019. Players and fellow coaches alike have praised his ability to blend basketball excellence with emotional intelligence — a rare combination that left a lasting impression on those he mentored.
“He’s someone who always put the mission before the moment,” one Auburn staff member said. “Coach Prewett wasn’t just about wins. He was about helping young men grow into responsible, faithful leaders. That’s his real legacy.”
Faith Leading the Way Forward
While stepping away from the sidelines, Prewett’s next chapter is no less meaningful. He plans to dedicate himself fully to ministry, where he will continue serving others in a spiritual capacity. The decision underscores his belief in living out a higher calling, one he hopes will make just as much impact as his coaching days.
“Coaching has been a blessing in my life, but my heart has been drawn more and more toward ministry,” Prewett said in a statement. “I want to thank Coach Pearl, the Auburn family, and every player I’ve worked with. This isn’t the end — it’s a continuation of the mission, just in a new arena.”
Moving Forward With Gratitude
Auburn University and the basketball community have responded with overwhelming support, praising Prewett for his invaluable contributions to the program and expressing best wishes for his new journey.
“Coach Prewett’s presence will be deeply missed,” said Head Coach Bruce Pearl. “But we are excited for the future he’s stepping into. He has touched so many lives here, and I know he will continue to do so wherever God leads him next.”
As Auburn gears up for the upcoming season, they do so with a sense of both nostalgia and hope — knowing that one of their own is answering a higher call, and that his legacy of faith and leadership will forever be etched into the program’s history.
