Bruce Pearl speaks for first time since Chuck Person Arrest

Auburn, Ala. (EETV) - Bruce Pearl faced the media for the first time since the arrest of associate head coach Chuck Person.

"I stand by the university statement and the conduct that is alleged is not acceptable," said Pearl on the Person allegations.

The allegations of bribery against Person have drawn a lot of focus to the status of the Auburn basketball program. Pearl believes the absence of Person will not affect their players.

"Our focus is the players, our focus is practice," said Pearl. "As it relates to any matters of all that, I'm probably not going to make any more comments on that."

In the FBI report, there was mention of players involved with Person in which, Person successfully directed the student-athletes to retain services of a specific financial advisor and business manager.

"I can't and I won't have any further update," said Pearl on the status of the investigation into who the players are.

Pearl stressed that he cannot make any more comment regarding the team and status of the program.

The news conference was already scheduled due to basketball beginning their official season practices.

"Our focus is the start of practice and trying to stay together from that point," said Pearl. "They have to stay focused on their books and basketball."

Pearl has high hopes for the season amidst the recent allegations and still sees his Auburn team making a run at the playoffs. 

"It's time to start the basketball season," said Pearl. "I feel like this team has a chance to compete for the tournament."

The Tigers will hold their first pro-day on Oct. 11 and will tip-off their season on Nov. 2 against Barry.