- Mike Kelly leads with 23 points and 7 three-pointers
- Johni Broome records 14-point, 11-rebound double-double
- Auburn advances to face No. 9 Creighton in second round
- Alabama State earns first NCAA Tournament victory in program history
Auburn basketball showcased its championship pedigree Thursday night, defeating in-state opponent Alabama State 83-63 in a dominant NCAA Tournament opener. The Tigers' victory extends their perfect record against the Hornets to 7-0 while cementing their status as legitimate title contenders.
Mike Kelly's sharpshooting proved decisive, with the junior guard connecting on 58% of his three-point attempts. This performance continues Auburn's season-long trend of perimeter dominance - the Tigers rank top-15 nationally in three-point percentage (38.6%) and made threes per game (9.8).
All-American center Johni Broome anchored the interior defense with 3 blocks, holding Alabama State to 32% shooting in the paint. The Tigers' defensive intensity created 18 turnovers, which they converted into 22 fast-break points.
Regional analysts highlight the unique dynamic of this matchup between schools separated by just 50 miles. While Auburn holds historical dominance, Alabama State's First Four victory against Saint Francis marked a program milestone for the SWAC champions. Hornets guard Amarr Knox impressed scouts with 18 points on 7-of-12 shooting.
Up next for Auburn lies a critical test against Creighton's high-powered offense. The Bluejays average 89.3 points per game behind Baylor Scheierman's 45% three-point shooting. Sportsbook odds currently favor Auburn by 6.5 points, with over/under set at 155.5.
Three critical factors will decide Saturday's matchup:
- Auburn's perimeter defense against Creighton's three-point barrage
- Rebound margin (Auburn +8.3 vs Creighton +5.1 season averages)
- Bench production - Tigers' reserves outscore opponents by 12.1 PPG
Tournament historians note Auburn's last No. 1 seed appearance (2022) ended in a second-round upset. However, this year's squad boasts improved depth with six players averaging 8+ points. Sports analysts project a potential Elite Eight showdown with Houston if both teams advance.