NCAA Basketball: UConn, Iowa State, Auburn rise in latest top 25 power rankings
By Joey Loose
8. Auburn (26-7)
Things haven’t always gone Auburn’s way this season, but it’s been a largely successful season for the Tigers. Sure there have been a few bumps in the road, including that early loss to Appalachian State, but the Tigers have played great basketball down the stretch, especially on the offensive side of things. That would continue into the SEC Tournament.
Their first postseason game was Friday in the quarterfinals, with the Tigers making easy work of an NCAA Tournament team, winning 86-55 over South Carolina. Johni Broome had 18 points and 10 rebounds and the defense was excellent against the Gamecocks. The Tigers dealt with another challenge on Saturday, beating Mississippi State 73-66 to secure a place in the Tournament finals. Five different Auburn players scored in double figures led by 14 points from Chad Baker-Mazara.
The Tigers are playing inspired ball down the stretch and have a great shot to win the SEC Tournament, especially after other upsets in the field. Auburn has won five straight games and looked great on offense while doing it, though their defense has shown that they can carry the load as well. Auburn looks like a potential 3-seed in the Tournament if things go well on Sunday and this team could surprise people and make another deep run.