In a commanding display, the Auburn Tigers, the NCAA tournament’s top overall seed, secured an 83-63 victory over the Alabama State Hornets in the first round of March Madness. This win not only advanced Auburn to the next round but also highlighted key aspects of their performance and strategy.
1. Miles Kelly’s Perimeter Precision
Senior guard Miles Kelly was instrumental in Auburn’s triumph, delivering an outstanding performance from beyond the arc. He connected on seven three-pointers, contributing a game-high 23 points. His sharpshooting stretched Alabama State’s defense, creating opportunities for his teammates and establishing a rhythm that the Hornets struggled to disrupt.
2. Johni Broome’s Dominance in the Paint
All-American forward Johni Broome showcased his prowess with a double-double, recording 14 points and 11 rebounds. His presence in the paint was a significant factor, both offensively and defensively, as he controlled the boards and altered shots, making it challenging for Alabama State to find success near the basket.
3. Second-Half Surge Secures the Win
Despite the final score, Alabama State remained competitive throughout the first half, narrowing the gap to just one point at 32-31 late in the period. However, Auburn responded with a decisive 12-3 run that extended their lead to double digits by halftime. This momentum carried into the second half, where the Tigers maintained control and prevented any significant comeback attempts by the Hornets.
Auburn’s performance in this matchup underscores their status as a formidable contender in the tournament. The combination of Kelly’s shooting accuracy and Broome’s interior dominance exemplifies the team’s balanced attack. As they prepare to face Creighton in the next round, maintaining this level of play will be crucial for their aspirations of advancing deeper into March Madness.
