Bruce Pearl wonders whether Akron is better than undefeated Miami (Ohio)

Bruce Pearl talks to OutKick's "Don't @ Me with Dan Dakich" about whether the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks stand to make the tournament.

Former Auburn Tigers men’s basketball coach Bruce Pearl said Wednesday he’s still unsure whether the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks are a lock for an at-large bid into the NCAA Tournament if they fail to attain an automatic selection.

The RedHawks moved to 30-0 on Tuesday night and clinched a share of the Mid-American Conference (MAC) regular-season title. The No. 19 ranked team is the lone Division I men’s team that’s still undefeated. Seven of their wins were by three points or fewer, and three of their victories came in overtime. Miami has not played against any ranked opponents.

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Bruce Pearl walks on the field before the game against the Texas A&M Aggies at Kyle Field on Sept. 27, 2025. (Troy Taormina/Imagn Images)

It’s the RedHawks’ resume that appeared to give Pearl pause despite being a fan of Miami head coach Travis Steele and the job that he’s done with the mid-major program.

"What Miami of Ohio has done has been unbelievable, and the questions start this way, ‘Are we choosing the 37 best at-large teams or are we choosing the 37 most deserving?’ Miami of Ohio is one of the most deserving to get into the NCAA Tournament," Pearl said on OutKick’s "Don’t @ Me with Dan Dakich." "Do I think they’re one of the best 37 teams? I don’t. That’s my opinion and it’s not personal.

Miami (OH) RedHawks head coach Travis Steele works the sideline against the Ohio Bobcats in the second half at Millett Hall on Feb. 13, 2026. (Aaron Doster/Imagn Images)

"Look, that’s what makes part of this time of the year so much fun. We’re entitled to our opinions and, of