ESPN’s Joe Lunardi shares where Auburn stands after loss to Tennessee
By Rolando Rosa
Published:
Auburn’s run in the SEC men’s basketball tournament came to a close with a 72-62 loss to No. 25 Tennessee in the second round on Thursday. Auburn (17-16, 7-11) has been on the bubble for the NCAA Tournament and now ESPN’s Joe Lunardi is sharing where the Tigers stand after the loss to the Vols.
Lundardi has Auburn pegged as one of the First Four Out, along with Indiana, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. Lunardi currently has Missouri, VCU, Texas, and SMU as the Last Four In.
Overall, Lunardi is projecting 10 SEC teams to reach the Big Dance, which would be the most of any conference.
Tahaad Pettiford had a game high for 28 points and 3-pointers (5) in the loss for Auburn. Keyshawn Hall (10 points) was the only other double-digit scorer for the Tigers.
Nate Ament led Tennessee with 27 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and three blocks. A key factor was at the free throw line, where Tennessee (24-for-32) converted 11 more attempts than Auburn. Tennessee (12) also had half the amount of turnovers as Auburn and scored 15 points off the Tigers’ miscues.
Auburn advanced to the second round after defeating Mississippi State 79-61 on Wednesday.
How will the SEC bubble teams fare? Kalshi is taking action on predictions!
