Auburn Prepares for Tough Second-Round Test Against Creighton in NCAA Tournament

Despite a first-round win, Auburn faces mounting concerns over free-throw shooting, turnovers, and defensive lapses as they gear up to face a disciplined Creighton team on Saturday.

Auburn's head coach Bruce Pearl criticized his team's performance in their 83-63 first-round win over Alabama State, citing missed free throws, turnovers, and defensive issues.
The Tigers shot only 56.3% from the free-throw line and committed 12 turnovers, raising concerns about their readiness for tougher competition.
Creighton, Auburn's second-round opponent, advanced after defeating Louisville with a disciplined performance led by standout players Ryan Kalkbrenner and Jamiya Neal.
Analysts have highlighted Creighton's strategy of forcing opponents into inefficient midrange shots and their high-tempo offense as key challenges for Auburn.
Auburn's players and coaching staff acknowledge the need for immediate improvement to avoid an early exit in the tournament.