AUBURN, Ala. — Auburn hosted Appalachian State in Neville Arena and capitalized on yet another non-conference game. With a final score of 75-53, the Orange and Blue walked away with the victory.
Auburn found many ways to score in the first half, with contributions from several players. Kolby King added a 3-pointer and two free throws, while George Kimble III scored a dunk following a steal. Owen Freeman and Bukky Oboye also added to the mix, helping Auburn stay ahead.
Appalachian State stayed within reach by hitting several 3-pointers. Eren Banks and Jaylen Colon helped keep the Mountaineers in the game with timely shots. They made four 3-pointers, creating an 18-7 run. However, despite turnovers and shooting issues at the end of the half, Auburn still held a 38-36 lead.
Auburn maintained its momentum from halftime and extended its lead in the second half with efficient offense that gave it room against Appalachian State. Tahaad Pettiford helped lead Auburn's offense, contributing several baskets, including a 3-pointer, while Narcisse Ngoy added a dunk. Pettiford also contributed at the free-throw line to keep Auburn ahead.
The Tigers had several key offensive moments throughout the second half. Adam Olsen knocked down back-to-back 3-pointers, while Thomas Dowd added a dunk. Freeman and King also helped Auburn build its offensive momentum. Auburn’s defense also created opportunities, forcing a couple of turnovers and recording blocks.
Appalachian State kept fighting back, with guards finding scoring opportunities. Auburn, however, maintained control and continued to build its lead. Kevin Overton splashed a 3-pointer with 32 seconds remaining to give Auburn a 75-53 advantage.
Auburn finished the second half strong, outscoring Appalachian State and maintaining its lead throughout the final minutes.
Pettiford finished as Auburn's leading scorer with 26 points. He connected on eight of his 16 field-goal attempts, including three from beyond the arc, and converted all seven of his free throws.
Head coach Steven Pearl spoke about Pettiford’s play, highlighting his offensive efforts.
“He did a good job of attacking the paint and playing off two feet; I loved how aggressive he was being. He had a really good night,” Pearl said.
However, Pettiford wasn’t the only contributor to Auburn’s success. Pearl played 10 players for the night.
“It’s crucial for us to buy into the depth we have,” Pearl said. “Guys coming in having had a four-minute break, it makes a huge difference. Our depth’s got to be our calling card. I’m confident in all 10 of our guys, and then I’ve got Blake (Muschalek) and Simon (Walker) on the bench, who I’m just as confident in as well. Our best teams have always had that. That’s something we’ve got to continue to do.”
The Tigers will look ahead to face No.12 Arizona in Neville Arena Friday at 8 p.m. CT, where they will hope to continue their non-conference winning streak.
