In a gritty SEC showdown, the Auburn Tigers edged out the Tennessee Volunteers. In front of a raucous home crowd at Neville Arena, the Tigers stayed undefeated in the SEC. The game lived up to its billing. Both teams showcased intense defensive prowess in a contest defined by hustle, key contributions, and clutch plays.
Grit and Grind: Johni Broome’s Impact
Despite being a game-time decision due to injury concerns, Johni Broome proved why he’s a cornerstone of Auburn’s success. Broome battled through adversity to deliver a gutsy performance. His Double-Double (16 points and 14 Rebounds) were crucial in a close game. His presence disrupted Tennessee’s offensive flow, especially in the second half, as Auburn secured pivotal stops down the stretch.
“Johni was incredible tonight,” said Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl in his postgame press conference. “Even at less than 100%, he gave us the energy and toughness we needed to compete against a team as physical as Tennessee.”
Miles Kelly Comes Up Clutch
Miles Kelly was the offensive spark Auburn needed, particularly when Tennessee’s suffocating defense made it difficult for the Tigers to find rhythm. Kelly knocked down a crucial three-pointer in the closing minutes, to give Auburn the lead for good. Kelly’s only 2 shots in the game were big 3-pointers in the 2nd half.
“Miles made the shots when it mattered most,” added Pearl. “In games like this, you need someone to step up and have the confidence to deliver, and he did exactly that.”
Defensive Showdown: Toughness on Both Ends
Tennessee deserves credit for making this game a low-scoring affair. Their defensive pressure forced Auburn into one of its lowest shooting percentages of the season. Auburn shot just 38% from the field. However, the Tigers responded with their own defensive intensity, holding Tennessee to under 40% shooting. They limited the Volunteers’ dangerous three-point attack.
Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes acknowledged the defensive battle post-game, saying, “Credit to Auburn. They played tough and forced us into difficult shots all night. We had opportunities, but they made the plays on both ends when it counted.”
Key Stats and Takeaways
- Rebounding Battle: Auburn managed to hold its own against Tennessee, with Johni Broome and Chaney Johnson combining for 18 rebounds.
- Clutch Shooting: Auburn did not shoot well from 3. However, the makes were crucial.
- Defensive Stops: Auburn forced 12 turnovers, converting several into transition points that proved critical in a tightly contested game.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, Auburn solidifies its position atop the SEC standings. The Tigers demonstrated why they are a formidable force at home. Meanwhile, Tennessee will look to regroup as they continue to push for a strong finish in conference play.
Watch the full post-game comments from Bruce Pearl here
