To the Editor:
I read with interest about Bruce Pearl’s philanthropic work in the Jewish community. I’ve known of Pearl since his days as an assistant coach at University of Iowa and the scandal he manufactured in the University of Illinois basketball program by taping and taking out of context comments by then-recruit Deon Thomas.
His character must be measured by all of his actions, not just the good ones. Pearl’s false accusations had a lasting impact on the Illinois basketball program and reflects poorly on his personal integrity.
These new infractions do nothing other than to reinforce my opinion of the man, in spite of his acts of teshuvah. Redemption is complete when we repent AND change our ways.
Mark Heisler
Elmhurst, Ill.
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