Opinion
3 min read

Can Auburn Tigers Tame the Tennessee Volunteers at Thompson-Boling Arena?

The Auburn Tigers are marching into a pivotal showdown with the Tennessee Volunteers at Thompson-Boling Arena, and fans are on the edge of their seats. The upcoming clash on February 28 promises to be a spectacle of collegiate basketball prowess, but can AUB rise to the occasion?


Mar 4, 2023; Auburn, Alabama, USA;  Auburn Tigers forward Jaylin Williams (2) shoots the ball against Tennessee Volunteers forward Jonas Aidoo (0) during the second half at Neville Arena. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at AUB's recent performances provides a mixed bag of expectations. On February 17, they faced off against the Kentucky Wildcats in what turned out to be a defensive slugfest. The Tigers fell short by 11 points, scoring only 59 against UK's 70. Their shooting was lackluster; they made just 31 percent from the field and an abysmal 18 percent from beyond the arc. Despite this setback, there were glimmers of hope as AUB managed to secure more offensive rebounds than UK and demonstrated resilience in defense with five blocks.


However, it was their explosive encounter with South Carolina Gamecocks on February 15 that truly showcased what AUB is capable of when firing on all cylinders. They obliterated SCAR with an astonishing scoreline of 101-61. Their field goal percentage was through the roof at an impressive 61 percent and their three-point shooting sizzled at an equally impressive rate.


Mar 4, 2023; Auburn, Alabama, USA;  Tennessee Volunteers guard Josiah-Jordan James (30) drives in against Auburn Tigers guard Zep Jagainstper (12) during the first half at Neville Arena. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

But consistency is key in sports, and that's where concerns creep in for AUB fans. Inconsistency has been a thorn in their side this season; for instance, while they managed to put up strong numbers against SCAR, they struggled mightily just days later against Florida Gators on February 10th – losing by a scoreline of 65-81.


The Volunteers will not make things easy for them either; known for their tenacity and home-court advantage, TENN will look to capitalize on any slip-ups by AUB.


Mar 4, 2023; Auburn, Alabama, USA;  Auburn Tigers guard K.D. Johnson (0) shoots the ball against Tennessee Volunteers forward Jonas Aidoo (0) during the second half at Neville Arena. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

As we approach game day, one thing is certain: if Auburn Tigers wish to leave Knoxville victorious, they'll need more than sheer talent—they'll need unwavering focus and execution reminiscent of their triumph over SCAR rather than their shortcomings against UK or FLA.


Fans eager to witness whether Auburn can bounce back should mark their calendars for February 28th at precisely six o'clock in the evening when these two titans clash under Tennessee skies. This gripping encounter will be broadcast nationally on ESPN2 channel number two hundred nine—don't miss what could be one of college basketball's most telling battles!

Rate the article

Related stories

Can Auburn Tigers Overcome Yale Bulldogs' Defense in Spokane?
Opinion

Can Auburn Tigers Overcome Yale Bulldogs' Defense in Spokane?

3 min read
Can Auburn Tigers Pounce on Florida Gators for Bridgestone Arena Glory?
Opinion

Can Auburn Tigers Pounce on Florida Gators for Bridgestone Arena Glory?

3 min read
Can Auburn Tigers Outshine Mississippi State Bulldogs at Bridgestone?
Opinion

Can Auburn Tigers Outshine Mississippi State Bulldogs at Bridgestone?

3 min read