NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Auburn's dominance in the SEC Tournament quarterfinals was reminiscent of a familiar force, as they soared to an 86-55 victory over South Carolina at Bridgestone Arena on Friday, evoking memories of Neville Arena's formidable aura.
The commanding 31-point triumph marked Auburn's fifth win of the season by a margin of at least 30 points, falling just one point shy of their largest SEC Tournament victory in program history.
This victory wasn't an isolated occurrence; it echoed a previous showdown with the same South Carolina squad in February, where Auburn asserted their superiority with a resounding 101-61 win. However, in this rematch, it was the Tigers' defense that stole the spotlight, holding the Gamecocks to a paltry 55 points on a dismal 28 percent shooting from the field.
Head coach Bruce Pearl echoed Broome's sentiments, highlighting the physicality and experience of his frontline players, Dylan Cardwell, Johni Broome, Chaney Johnson, and Jaylin Williams, stating, "We're built a little differently...they're all older and they're all bigger, and they're willing to be physical."
Broome, a First Team All-SEC selection, showcased his versatility on both ends of the court, tallying 18 points and 10 rebounds. His consistent performance marked his 23rd consecutive game scoring in double figures and his 12th double-double of the season, asserting his dominance as a top player in the conference.
Reflecting on the defensive prowess, Auburn's big man, Johni Broome, emphasized the team's concerted effort to stifle South Carolina's offense, stating, "In yesterday's (SEC Tournament) game, they scored 50 points in the paint. We knew we can't win like that. Our front line takes pride in our defense. As you can see, on the defensive side, we held our own and stood our ground."
During a crucial stretch in the second half, Broome demonstrated his shooting range, knocking down a pair of pivotal 3-pointers as part of a 13-4 Auburn run that extended their lead to 32 points.
Broome credited Pearl's emphasis on seizing pivotal moments in games, stating, "Coach (Pearl) always tells us now is the time to go on a run, make shots...I just credit all my teammates for being in the gym...stepping up to the moment when the moment's getting big."
Chaney Johnson, contributing 11 points off the bench, showcased his capabilities in his first SEC Tournament appearance, demonstrating his versatility with three rebounds, three assists, and two blocks.
While Broome, Johnson and K.D. Johnson were the only Auburn players to reach double figures in scoring against South Carolina, Pearl commended the team's collective effort, with 11 different players making contributions on the scoresheet.
Reflecting on the depth of his roster, Coach Pearl quipped, "If you told me we'd have 10 guys score and that Jaylin Williams would only have three, I may be a little concerned...You would never know it from Jaylin Williams. He's excited about winning."
With the victory, Auburn secured their place in the SEC Tournament semifinals for the 14th time in program history. Their next challenge awaits against Mississippi State in the semifinal matchup, scheduled for Saturday at 2:30 p.m. CT inside Bridgestone Arena.
