Auburn Basketball: Keys for Sweet 16 matchup with UNC Tar Heels
By Dakota Cox
Auburn Basketball is firing on all cylinders in the NCAA Tournament. How do they keep this momentum against North Carolina in the Sweet Sixteen?
The Auburn Tigers came into this season with hopes of being the best in the SEC. With their shooting tandem in the backcourt and physical presence in the front court, it was thought to be a distinct possibility. However, early losses and poor performances kept them out of discussion for that top spot.
However, this team has peaked at the right time. Upsets in the SEC Tournament helped them win a championship. That run clinched their spot on the 5-line, and they were ready to do more damage.
5-seeds are a dangerous place to be. Veteran fans know to be wary of a potential 5-12 upset. This almost happened to the Tigers when they played New Mexico State. State gave Auburn all they could possibly handle, and Auburn had to get lucky at the end. It took a bad decision, missing two of three free throws, and missing a wide open shot at the end for Auburn to get past the first round with a win.
Related Story. Keys for UNC to beat Auburn. light
After so much luck in the first round, Auburn came out against Kansas hoping to prove without any doubt that they deserved to be in the Sweet Sixteen, and they did just that. Auburn was in full control that entire game, and Kansas had no chance of coming back.
However, North Carolina is a much better team than Kansas. It will take another game like their last for Auburn to move on. That being said, what exactly will it take for Auburn to win? Here’s three keys I have for them to advance.