Overview

• Auburn struggled with free-throw shooting and turnovers in their first-round win over Alabama State, raising concerns for head coach Bruce Pearl.
• Creighton enters the matchup with momentum after an upset victory over Louisville, led by standout performances from Jamiya Neal and Ryan Kalkbrenner.
• The game highlights a key battle between Auburn’s Johni Broome, a double-double machine, and Creighton’s Ryan Kalkbrenner, a four-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year.
• Bruce Pearl has called on Auburn fans to create a supportive atmosphere at Rupp Arena, emphasizing the importance of crowd energy in the matchup.
• Both teams rely on disciplined play and strong performances from their big men, reflecting the unpredictable nature of March Madness.