Auburn's Hugh Freeze Battles Prostate Cancer: 'Treatable and Curable,' Say Doctors

Auburn Tigers head coach Hugh Freeze is facing a tough opponent off the field. The university announced Friday that Freeze has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Thankfully, it sounds like they caught it early. Doctors are optimistic, saying Freeze's cancer "is very treatable and curable," according to a statement from the school. The 55-year-old coach is expected to continue his football duties during treatment. The Tigers are set to kick off spring practice in late March. "Recently, Coach Freeze was diagnosed with an early form of prostate cancer," the statement said. "Thankfully, it was detected early and his doctors have advised that it is very treatable and curable. He will continue his normal coaching duties and responsibilities, and with forthcoming proper treatment, is expected to make a full recovery." Auburn officials also relayed Freeze's hope that his situation will encourage others to prioritize annual health screenings. "Coach Freeze is incredibly appreciative of our medical professionals and has asked that we use his experience as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing and scheduling annual health screenings," the statement noted. Last season, Auburn finished with a 6-6 regular-season record under Freeze, ultimately losing in the Music City Bowl. The Tigers ended with a 5-7 record. However, Auburn has been actively recruiting players through the transfer portal, aiming to become a force in the Southeastern Conference in 2025. Freeze has experience coaching through health challenges. In 2019, he dealt with a herniated disk and a staph infection, even coaching a Liberty Flames game from a hospital bed that was temporarily moved to the stadium's coaches' box. Talk about dedication!