Auburn Upsets No. 15 Mississippi State 88-66, Proving Their Strength Without Johni Broome
In a stunning display of depth and determination, Auburn University achieved a remarkable 88-66 upset victory over No. 15 Mississippi State on January 20, 2025. What made this win even more impressive was the absence of their star player, Johni Broome, who has been an essential part of the Tigers’ success this season. Despite missing their standout center, Auburn showed that they could stand tall and still execute a high-level game, dominating both ends of the floor with remarkable efficiency.
The performance was a statement of Auburn’s collective ability and a testament to the team’s growth this season under head coach Bruce Pearl. Coming into the game, Mississippi State was riding high with an impressive 15-4 record, including notable victories over ranked opponents. But Auburn, with a 12-7 record, showed they were more than capable of competing with and defeating a higher-ranked team, especially in front of their home crowd at Neville Arena in Auburn, Alabama.
The Key to Auburn’s Success: A Balanced Team Effort
Without Broome, who had been averaging over 14 points and 7 rebounds per game, Auburn’s chances of toppling the Bulldogs seemed uncertain to some. However, the Tigers found a way to fill the void left by their star player and executed a well-balanced attack that featured contributions from several players.
Jaylin Williams, a senior forward, stepped up in a big way, playing a key role in both the scoring and rebounding departments. Williams, known for his versatility, finished with 21 points and 10 rebounds, showcasing his ability to not only score in the paint but also stretch the floor with his mid-range shooting. His relentless energy and leadership were crucial as he anchored the frontcourt for Auburn throughout the game.
Alongside Williams, Zep Jasper provided stability and experience at the guard position, playing a pivotal role in facilitating Auburn’s offense. Jasper finished with 15 points and 6 assists, directing the team’s offensive flow while also providing tough defense on Mississippi State’s perimeter players. His ability to set the tone offensively and defensively allowed Auburn to maintain control throughout the game.
Meanwhile, Lior Berman was another key contributor, emerging as a reliable scoring option with 14 points, including several crucial three-pointers. His shooting from beyond the arc proved to be a game-changer, stretching Mississippi State’s defense and opening up lanes for Auburn’s big men to operate inside. Berman’s perimeter shooting was instrumental in keeping the Bulldogs at bay, preventing them from launching a comeback in the second half.
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Auburn’s victory was the way they dominated on both ends of the floor without Broome. On offense, the Tigers shot 48% from the field and 40% from three-point range, an efficient and fluid offensive showing. Defensively, Auburn was stifling, holding Mississippi State to just 66 points, well below their average. The Tigers forced 15 turnovers and turned those mistakes into fast-break opportunities, which were pivotal in building their lead.
Mississippi State’s Struggles and Auburn’s Defensive Dominance
Mississippi State entered the game as one of the more defensively sound teams in the SEC, but they found themselves outmatched on both ends of the floor by an Auburn team that was playing with an increased sense of urgency. While the Bulldogs boasted a well-rounded roster, they struggled to find their rhythm throughout the game, especially in the second half.
Tolu Smith, the standout center for Mississippi State, did his best to keep his team in the game, finishing with 22 points and 11 rebounds. Smith, who had been dominant in recent games, showed why he is one of the best big men in the SEC. However, despite his efforts, Auburn’s defense was relentless in limiting his touches and making his scoring opportunities difficult. The Tigers collapsed on Smith in the paint and contested nearly every shot he took, making his presence less effective than usual.
The Bulldogs’ perimeter shooting also let them down, as they shot just 32% from three-point range and struggled to hit outside shots with any consistency. Mississippi State’s inability to stretch the floor made it easier for Auburn to focus their defense on Smith in the post and disrupt the Bulldogs’ offensive flow.
Moreover, Mississippi State’s guard play was not up to its usual standards. Shakeel Moore and Camryn Carter, both key contributors in the Bulldogs’ offense, found themselves stifled by Auburn’s defense. Moore, who had been a consistent scorer this season, was limited to just 9 points on 4-of-12 shooting, while Carter was held to a mere 7 points. Auburn’s ability to disrupt Mississippi State’s ball movement and force tough shots played a major role in limiting the Bulldogs’ offensive effectiveness.
Auburn’s Fast-Paced Style and Transition Game
Auburn’s ability to turn defense into offense was a major factor in their success. The Tigers thrived in transition, pushing the ball up the floor quickly after securing a defensive rebound or forcing a turnover. They capitalized on Mississippi State’s mistakes, running the fast break effectively and scoring easy points before the Bulldogs could set up their defense. Auburn’s speed and depth were key in wearing down Mississippi State, as the Tigers used their transition game to build and extend their lead.
In contrast, Mississippi State struggled to match Auburn’s pace. The Bulldogs, known for their methodical style of play, were often caught off guard by the Tigers’ speed, which led to several quick baskets and high-percentage scoring opportunities for Auburn. The transition game proved to be a lethal weapon for the Tigers, especially in the second half, when they pulled away and never looked back.
The Impact of Bruce Pearl’s Coaching
Head coach Bruce Pearl deserves significant credit for Auburn’s performance in this game. Pearl is known for his ability to get the best out of his players, and his tactical adjustments without Broome proved to be effective. With Broome’s absence, Pearl adjusted the lineup and rotations, making sure to maximize the strengths of his available players. His focus on defensive intensity and ball movement was evident, and it allowed Auburn to execute their game plan to perfection.
Pearl’s ability to adapt to the circumstances and keep his team motivated was crucial in securing the upset. His coaching staff also played a role in keeping the team focused and ensuring that the Tigers stayed disciplined despite missing their star player. Auburn’s resilience, especially in the face of adversity, reflected the trust that Pearl has built with his team over the years.
Looking Ahead: What This Win Means for Auburn
The victory over Mississippi State is a major confidence booster for Auburn, especially without their star player. It proves that the Tigers are a dangerous team that can compete with and defeat some of the best in the SEC. The win also strengthens their case for an NCAA tournament bid, which will be critical as they continue to navigate the rigorous SEC schedule.
Auburn’s ability to play as a cohesive unit, even without Broome, bodes well for their future. If they can continue to play with the same level of intensity and balance, they could be a force to be reckoned with in the latter half of the season. The Tigers’ depth, leadership, and team-oriented play will be key factors in their quest to secure a strong finish to the regular season and make a deep run in March.
In conclusion, Auburn’s 88-66 victory over No. 15 Mississippi State was a masterclass in team basketball. Despite missing their star player, Johni Broome, the Tigers proved that they have the talent, depth, and resilience to compete at a high level in the SEC. The win showcased their defensive prowess, fast-paced offense, and balanced scoring attack, all of which will serve them well as they continue their journey through the remainder of the season. For Auburn, this victory is not just a statement of their capabilities without Broome, but a clear indication that they can compete with anyone in the nation.
