Bruce Pearl has solidified Auburn basketball as an SEC powerhouse over the past few seasons, showcasing incredible talent year after year. This season is no different, with a solid recruiting class joining key returners from last year’s squad. With such talent on their roster, Auburn is poised to make a run for the SEC title.
One of the main reasons Auburn is considered a favorite in the SEC this year is their tough non-conference schedule. Coach Pearl declared that they would face the toughest non-conference schedule in program history, and he wasn’t joking. The Tigers are set to compete in the prestigious Maui Invitational, squaring off against teams like Iowa State, Michigan State, North Carolina, and UConn. Additionally, they have matchups against tough opponents like Houston, Duke, Ohio State, and Purdue. Starting the season with a game against perennial March Madness representative Vermont only adds to their challenging schedule.
While casual fans may not be high on Auburn right now, advanced metrics tell a different story. According to Bart Torvik, the Tigers are ranked as the 7th best team in the nation. Torvik’s predictions are usually spot on, which bodes well for Auburn this season.
Recruiting has been a strong suit for Auburn under Pearl’s reign, and this year is no exception. The focus was on quality rather than quantity, bringing in two top-100 recruits, including standout Tahaad Pettiford. Pettiford’s athleticism is expected to make an impact in the SEC, although he’ll need to work on his shooting. The addition of Georgia Tech transfer Miles Kelly, who averaged 14 points per game, adds even more depth to the roster. If Pearl can effectively blend the new recruits with the returning players, Auburn will undoubtedly be a force in the SEC race.
The metrics certainly love Auburn, and fans should have high expectations for the team this season. While the SEC is stacked with strong teams like Alabama and Arkansas, the Tigers are right up there with the best of them. Despite potentially not boasting an eye-popping record by season’s end, Auburn’s tough schedule may set them up for a deep run in March Madness as a dark horse contender.
In conclusion, Auburn basketball’s rise to prominence under Bruce Pearl has been nothing short of remarkable. With a mix of top recruits, seasoned veterans, and a challenging schedule ahead, the Tigers are primed to make some serious noise in the SEC this season. Keep an eye on Auburn as they look to add another chapter to the program’s success story.
