Former coach Bruce Pearl, former Iowa assistant Bruce Pearl and former coach of the Illinois basketball team, has been subject to criticism during TBS broadcasts of the team's Sweet 16 and Elite Eight games. During this time, Thomas, who was the subject of Pearl's deceitful behavior during a recruiting competition, was the target. Despite an apology in 2011, Pearl never dropped his devious ways. He joined CBS Sports in October after stepping down as Auburn's coach, citing his desire to spend more time with family and to hand the reins to his son and son Steven. Despite this, Thomas has argued that Pearl should not be allowed to appear on television to promote other programs that have every right to get into the NCAA Tournament.