AUBURN, Ala. - After prevailing in an early clash of titans last Saturday against No. 4 Houston, No. 5 Auburn (2-0) returns home to play Kent State (2-0), hoping to improve to 3-0 to start the 2024-25 campaign.
In one of the biggest non-conference wins in program history, the Tigers were fueled by a second-half flurry that relied on big shots and timely defensive stops. Freshman guard Tahaad Pettiford led the Tigers with 21 points and five threes, as the left-hander from Jersey City had his early season coming-out party. Preseason All-American center Johni Broome also logged 20 points, nine rebounds and five blocks, continuing his consistent play in the Tigers frontcourt.
However, Auburn’s win did not come without controversy. The team’s initial plane ride to Houston was diverted back to Auburn after flight crew members reported a fight broke out between players. The players involved, freshman Jahki Howard and senior transfer Ja’Heim Hudson, did not travel with the team on the second flight and it is unclear if they will be available for Wednesday night’s game against Kent State.
The Tigers will look to maintain their focus against the Golden Flashes, a team that was picked to finish third in the MAC. Kent State is led by senior forward VonCameron Davis, who averages 17.5 points through two games. Auburn will look to use the combination of Denver Jones, Miles Kelly and Tahaad Pettiford to neutralize Kent State’s offensive attack.
Auburn has skyrocketed up the rankings in the past week in both the Associated Press and KenPom rankings. The Tigers climbed six spots in the latest AP poll, going from No. 11 to No. 5, and the Tigers have taken the No. 1 overall KenPom ranking after their impressive start. ESPN’s Joe Lunardi also moved the Tigers up in his famous Bracketology, improving them from a 3 seed to a 2 seed.
Auburn’s Johni Broome was honored with the SEC Player of the Week averaging 16.0 points, 8.0 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game. The star senior was also recognized for his stellar play in the Battleground 2k24 against Houston, where he was named tournament MVP.
Neville Arena has become one of the biggest home-court advantages in college basketball, especially against non-conference opponents. Auburn boasts a 55-consecutive home winning streak against non-conference opponents. The Tigers have benefited from the great support their fanbase shows, as they look for their 57th consecutive sellout at Neville Arena
Tipoff between the Tigers and Golden Flashes is slated for 7 p.m. and can be viewed on SECN+ or the ESPN App. You can also listen along on the Auburn Sports Network with Andy Burcham and Randall Dickey on the call.
