Overview

• Auburn has transformed from a struggling program into a basketball powerhouse under head coach Bruce Pearl, achieving a 27-3 record this season and securing the SEC regular-season title.
• Star forward Johni Broome, a Wooden Award candidate, has been pivotal for Auburn, averaging 18 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game despite battling injuries.
• The Tigers face challenges with their perimeter defense, which has been exploited in key losses to teams like Florida and Duke, raising concerns ahead of the NCAA Tournament.
• Charles Barkley, Auburn's most famous basketball alum, has praised Pearl's impact on the program but highlighted Florida as a major threat to Auburn's championship hopes.
• Auburn's upcoming game against Alabama will serve as a critical test of their defensive adjustments and momentum heading into March Madness.