Well, the first one is out of the way.
The No. 14 Auburn Tigers suffered their first loss of the season on Saturday, falling to Memphis, 82-73 at Holiday Hoopsgiving at State Farm Arena in Atlanta.
Auburn did not exhibit a strong showing defensively in the loss, which has been its’ bread and butter this season as the offense continues to develop. Neither side performed particularly well in the game, as Auburn shot 38% from the field, while only blocking two shots and pulling down 32 rebounds.
Head coach Bruce Pearl says that his opponent was more experienced than Auburn. As a result, Pearl is taking responsibility for Auburn’s lack of preparation.
“This is the first time that defense didn’t carry the day for us. I knew the offensive would be challenged, but we weren’t very well-prepared,” Pearl said following the game. “We didn’t play with the effort and energy we have on defense. I have to take ownership of that. It’s on me.”
Despite the loss, Auburn saw strong production from Johni Broome, as well as Chris Moore. Their efforts have earned them “Tigers of the Game” honors.
Here is a look at who writers Taylor Jones, J.D. McCarthy, and River Wells voted for as their “Tigers of the Game” following Auburn’s loss to Memphis.