AUBURN, Ala. — Auburn (7-3) will return to action Wednesday as the Tigers travel to Louisiana to take on Louisiana-Lafayette (4-4) in another non-conference matchup. The Tigers have been off for over a week for finals but will look to shake off the rust quickly and add another win to the resume.
Auburn survived a scare from UAB in its last matchup, defeating UAB 69-62. However, the Tigers played that game without three starters in the lineup. The Tigers hope to be at full strength in Louisiana.
With multiple starters out last game, new faces took advantage of the opportunity. Freshman Syriah Daniels scored 14 points and made her first start of her young career. Daniels could be a key player for the Tigers, even with other players returning to the lineup.
Louisiana is also dealing with potential absences. The Rajun Cajuns' leading scorer, Jaylyn James has missed the last three games. Her status is in question heading into Wednesday’s matchup. Louisiana’s offense has been a struggle this year. The Cajuns average just over 57 points per game. Playing without their leading scorer makes scoring even more challenging, and would give Auburn a major advantage.
Louisiana, while not an impressive offensive team, plays solid defense. The Rajun Cajuns allow opponents under 60 points per game. Auburn, meanwhile, averages 74 points per game. How Auburn’s offense fairs against Louisiana’s defense could determine the outcome.
Auburn enters Wednesday’s matchup seeking its second true road win of the season. Auburn picked up neutral site wins at the Paradise Jam, but its only true road win came at Virginia in the ACC/SEC Challenge.
Wednesday’s matchup will also be the final road non-conference game of the season. In total, Auburn traveled over 11,000 miles for what was a challenging non-conference slate. Auburn hopes to finish the road slate with a win against Louisiana.
The tip-off is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. CT in the Cajundome. The game will air on the Auburn Sports Network and ESPN+.
