What Bruce Pearl said after Auburn's thrilling victory over Florida in SEC Tournament
The Auburn Tigers advanced to the SEC Tournament final on Saturday by beating Florida 65-62.
The game wasn’t without some controversy, though, as a foul on the final play wasn’t called, costing the Gators a chance to tie. However, Auburn won on the strength of PG Jared Harper’s play, and it was only fitting that he hit the winning shot.
After the game, coach Bruce Pearl said he wouldn’t have the ball in anyone else’s hands for a big moment. Here’s what he said on TV and in his postgame press conference:
On Jared Harper’s game-winning shot:
Bruce Pearl on TV on winning with clutch Jared Harper: 'I'm living and dying with my guys. They are the ones who got us here… I trust my players.'
Harper scored 20 and Auburn beat Florida 65-62 to advance to the Southeastern Tournament championship game.
— Auburn Gold Mine (@AUGoldMine) March 16, 2019
On the controversial final play of the game:
"Obviously, there's contact there." — Auburn coach Bruce Pearl on the final play of the game. #Gators
— OnlyGators.com: Florida Gators news (@onlygators) March 16, 2019
On what awaits in the final:
"Tomorrow we'll play a team that's got a chance to be in the Final Four." – said Bruce Pearl, without knowing his opponent.
Speaks highly of the SEC semifinal.
— Adam Sparks (@AdamSparks) March 16, 2019
On Auburn fighting out a close win:
Bruce Pearl, with what voice he has remaining: "If you look at that stat sheet, it's hard to explain an Auburn victory."
— Brandon Zimmerman (@BZSEC) March 16, 2019
The Tigers will take on the winner of the Kentucky/Tennessee semifinal on Sunday afternoon in Nashville.
