AUBURN, Ala. - Auburn played its last exhibition game before beginning regular season non-conference play as they host Columbus State University. The Tigers dominated in the 94-65 win Thursday night, as the defense and fast-paced play combined with efficient shooting led the way.
The Tiger's defense looked like an impenetrable wall down the stretch tonight putting on a clinic on that end of the court. The Tigers recorded 19 steals, adding an impressive six blocks. The leader of the defense, Kaitlyn Duhan, led the game with 10 rebounds and six steals while also putting up 10 points for a double-double.
“I've always taken pride in my defense,” Duhan said after her impressive performance. “Putting pressure on the ball making sure they fumble… knowing that gives my team energy”
The Tigers put up an impressive 94 points behind Honesty Scott-Grayson’s game-high 20 points. Scott Grayson was off to a flying start starting 4-4 from the field for nine points in the first quarter. The fifth-year added five assists and four rebounds to the impressive showing. Scott-Grayson has stepped up not only on the court by filling up the stat sheet tonight but also by stepping up in the locker room as a leader of the team.
“Just trying to lead the younger players… just lead them in the right direction make sure they’re ok mentally and physically," Scott-Grayson added after the stellar performance. “I feel like I can do better but that’s just what i'm trying to work on right now.”
The Tigers got to the basket, moving the ball well and taking high-percentage shots, which was reflected on the stat sheet as the Tigers shot 51 percent from the field. In addition, 58 points came in the paint, and improved free throw shooting saw the team increase its percentage to 54, compared to its lack luster effrot two days prior.
“I do feel like we left a lot of points out there,” Harris said. “Kids played hard and you score 94 points you have to be pleased with that. We have been shooting it really well in practice… we didn’t have to shoot the three I didn’t want this team to settle. Our focus today was getting our posts more involved.”
The Tigers put up 42 points off the bench tonight with a mix of players hitting the floor and making an impact. The depth this team has primes the Tigers to wear teams out and enables them to attack non-stop as the other team runs low on energy and cycles through their best players periodically Auburn can keep the pressure on with their depth.
“Its really valuable…it's a different look when I go to my bench im longer i'm more athletic.” Harris commented after the game “That's a difference maker when you can bring in a lineup that's different you can wear them out with you first group and then you can come in with longer and even more athletic.”
The Tigers open their regular season hosting Jacksonville at Neville Arena on Monday, November 6th at 7 p.m. CT. The game will be broadcasted on SECN+ as well as the Auburn Sports Network.
