In a world where political figures rarely get praise across the aisle, Auburn basketball coach Bruce Pearl made waves this week—not for a buzzer-beater or game strategy, but for calling on former President Donald Trump to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.
Pearl’s bold statement came in response to Trump announcing a ceasefire between Iran and Israel, just hours after tensions had flared dangerously high in the Middle East.
Trump Breaks News of Ceasefire on Social Media
The former president took to Truth Social on Monday to share the news, following a tense weekend that saw Iran firing missiles at a U.S. base in Qatar—retaliation for alleged bombings of three Iranian nuclear facilities.
In his announcement, Trump painted the ceasefire as a historic turning point:
“This is a war that could have gone on for years and destroyed the entire Middle East,” he wrote.
“But it didn’t and never will! God bless Israel, God bless Iran, God bless the Middle East, God bless the United States of America, and GOD BLESS THE WORLD!”
Pearl Says Trump Deserves the Nobel Peace Prize
Pearl didn’t hold back in his response on X (formerly Twitter), hailing Trump’s intervention as the work of a true leader and peacekeeper.
“This is what a peacemaker and the leader of the free world does,” Pearl posted.
“He steps in when both sides can’t agree and gives them an offer they can’t refuse.
He should be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.”
He ended his message with a prayer that all sides continue to show grace and keep the peace.
What Deal Was Actually Made?
While Trump claimed credit for brokering the ceasefire, details about what exactly was agreed upon remain murky.
Abdulrahman Al Thani, played a key role in finalizing the deal.
He reportedly spoke directly with Iranian officials, getting them to accept a U.S.-backed proposal after Israel had already signed on.
The diplomatic phone call came shortly after the missile strike on the U.S. base in Qatar.
Pearl Doubles Down on His Support for Trump
Coach Bruce Pearl has been anything but quiet about his admiration for Trump, especially following the initial bombing of the Iranian nuclear sites.
When that news broke over the weekend, he took to social media again to thank Trump:
“Thank you Mr. President for your strength and vision, keeping us safe. Proud of our troops!”
He added that Trump did what others “lacked the courage” to do, praising him for being patient and clear in his approach and calling for “peace through prosperity.”
Trump Says the Peace Could Last Forever
Following the announcement, Trump spoke with NBC, expressing confidence in the deal’s long-term success.
“I think the ceasefire is unlimited. It’s going to go forever,” he said.
“It’s a great day for America. It’s a great day for the Middle East.I’m very happy to have been able to get the job done.
A lot of people were dying, and it was only going to get worse.”
What’s Next for the Nobel Prize?
As for the Nobel Peace Prize, it’s not something Trump can simply claim—he’ll need to be nominated through the official Nobel Committee later this year, with a shortlist expected by February.
If he’s nominated and chosen, it would add a new—and controversial—chapter to both his legacy and the history of the prize.
Pearl Continues to Make Headlines On and Off the Court
Bruce Pearl, 65, has led the Auburn basketball team since 2014 and brought them to national attention, including a trip to the NCAA Final Four earlier this year.
But it’s not just his coaching skills keeping him in the headlines—his outspoken political views continue to draw attention far beyond the basketball court.