The Auburn Tigers are set to commence their SEC conference play with a highly anticipated matchup against the Missouri Tigers on Saturday, January 4, 2025. The game will tip off at 4:00 PM ET at Neville Arena in Auburn, Alabama, and will be broadcast live on the SEC Network.
Auburn Tigers Overview
Auburn enters this contest with a strong 12-1 record, riding an impressive eight-game home winning streak. Under the guidance of head coach Bruce Pearl, the Tigers have demonstrated exceptional prowess on both ends of the court. They boast the nation’s top adjusted offensive rating and rank 11th in adjusted defensive rating, according to KenPom’s analytics.
Coach Bruce Pearl Previewed the game with the media:
The team’s offensive firepower is evident, averaging 88.3 points per game while holding opponents to 64.8 points, resulting in an average margin of victory of 23.5 points. Auburn’s depth is showcased by five players averaging double figures in scoring, including Johni Broome, Chad Baker-Mazara, Tahaad Pettiford, Denver Jones, and Chaney Johnson. Broome, in particular, has been a standout, leading the team with 18.2 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 2.6 blocks per game.
Missouri Tigers Overview
Missouri comes into the SEC opener with an 11-2 record, showcasing a balanced attack under head coach Dennis Gates. The team averages 87.3 points per game, placing them among the top offensive teams nationally. Key contributors include Mark Mitchell, who leads the team with 13.8 points and 5.1 rebounds per game, and Anthony Robinson II, who averages 3.8 assists and 2.5 steals per game.
Defensively, Missouri allows 67.6 points per game and will need to elevate their performance to contend with Auburn’s high-powered offense. The matchup between Missouri’s guards on defense and Auburn’s guards on offense will be a critical factor in determining the game’s outcome.
Betting Odds and Predictions
As of January 3, 2025, Auburn is favored by 18.5 points, with the total over/under set at 154.5 points.
Fox Sports The Game Analysts predict a high-scoring affair, with Auburn projected to secure a victory with a scoreline around 85-69.
How to Watch
- Date: Saturday, January 4, 2025
- Time: 4:00 PM ET
- Location: Neville Arena, Auburn, Alabama
- TV Broadcast: SEC Network
- Streaming Options: Available through the SEC Network and affiliated streaming services
Conclusion
The SEC opener between Auburn and Missouri promises to be an exciting matchup, featuring two high-scoring teams eager to make a statement in conference play. Auburn’s formidable offense and home-court advantage position them as favorites, but Missouri’s balanced attack will pose challenges. Fans can look forward to a competitive game as both teams vie for an early conference victory.
Check out the conversation between myself and Quentin Corpuel of Rock M Nation, previewing the game.
