Key Performers:
- Auburn (14-1, 2-0 SEC):
- Johni Broome: 20 points, 12 rebounds, anchoring the Tigers with a dominant performance inside.
- Denver Jones: 18 points, including clutch free throws in the final seconds.
- Tahaad Pettiford: 14 points, including crucial free throws to secure the victory.
- Texas (11-4, 0-2 Big 12):
- Arthur Kaluma: 34 points on 12-for-16 shooting, carrying the Longhorns’ offense.
- Jordan Pope: 19 points, with 17 coming in a second-half surge.
Game Highlights:
Auburn extended its winning streak to 14 games with a thrilling win over Texas, securing Bruce Pearl’s school-record 214th victory as head coach. The Tigers built a 21-point lead in the second half but had to withstand a furious rally from the Longhorns, led by Arthur Kaluma’s 34-point performance.
Auburn used its size advantage to dominate the boards and control the paint, outscoring Texas 48-28 inside. However, the Longhorns fought back, cutting the deficit to three points in the final minute. Clutch free throws from Denver Jones and Tahaad Pettiford in the closing seconds sealed the win for Auburn.
Key Takeaways:
- Auburn: The Tigers maintained their dominance despite a late scare and are poised to move into the top spot in the rankings after Tennessee’s loss. Johni Broome’s inside presence and the team’s free-throw shooting were critical in securing the victory.
- Texas: The Longhorns showed resilience after being dominated in the paint in their previous game. Arthur Kaluma’s brilliant offensive performance and Jordan Pope’s second-half surge highlighted their ability to compete against top teams, but their slow start proved costly.
Key Moment:
- With Auburn leading 81-73, Broome hit a buzzer-beating jumper to extend the lead to 10 with 1:23 remaining. A technical foul on Broome, however, allowed Texas to make a late push, pulling within three after free throws by Pope and a jumper from Tre Johnson. Auburn’s late free throws ultimately sealed the win.
Key Stat:
- First-Half Struggles: Texas recorded only one assist and no 3-pointers in the first half, contributing to a 12-point halftime deficit.
What’s Next:
- Auburn: The Tigers travel to South Carolina on Saturday, looking to continue their winning streak.
- Texas: The Longhorns host No. 1 Tennessee in a high-stakes Big 12-SEC showdown.
Auburn’s size and poise under pressure reinforced its position as a national title contender, while Texas will aim to build on its improved second-half play as they prepare for a marquee matchup.
