In a commanding performance, the No. 1 Auburn Tigers routs the No. 15 Mississippi State Bulldogs 88-66 at Neville Arena.
No Johni Broome, no problem for Auburn against the Bulldogs. Auburn found a way to keep the train rolling to cement themselves as the best team in the country.
Game Highlights:
- Chad Baker-Mazara: Led all scorers with 20 points, showcasing offensive prowess. He got Auburn off to a quick start with great finishes around the basket and a few long range shots.
- Chaney Johnson: In his first start of the season, contributed 17 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 blocks. He was a force on both ends of the court. His defense against Cam Matthews was stellar.
- Denver Jones: Added 13 points and three assists. He has proven to be one of the best combo guards in the country. He had 0 turnovers against one of the best defenses in the nation.
- Miles Kelly: Had 13 points with some stellar shooting. He noted that rebounding was a focus for him in this game. That focus showed with 10 boards, giving him a double-double.
- Tahaad Pettiford: Chipped in 12 points, including an arena-shaking breakaway windmill.
Auburn’s defense was particularly effective, limiting Mississippi State to just 12.5% shooting from beyond the arc (3-for-24). They also held the Bulldogs’ leading scorers, Josh Hubbard and Cameron Matthews, scoreless until late in the game.
Mississippi State’s top performers included Josh Hubbard, (17 points), and RJ Melendez, (15 points and 10 rebounds).
Reflecting on the game, Auburn Coach Bruce Pearl said, “You can’t be anything but impressed.” Auburn has definitely been impressive. Without a force like Johni Broome, they dominated wire-to-wire.
Mississippi State head coach Chris Jans was brief in his post game comments. He Commended the defense against his stars saying they, “did an excellent job on both of those guys”
Looking ahead, Auburn is set to face Georgia in their next matchup, aiming to extend their winning streak and maintain their top-ranked status.
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