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Did the Auburn Tigers' Fast Breaks Outpace Yale Bulldogs' Steals in Spokane?

The Auburn University Tigers faced a narrow defeat against the Yale Bulldogs with a final score of 76-78. The Tigers now stand at 7-1, while the Bulldogs have improved their record to 0-1.


Mar 22, 2024; Spokane, WA, USA; Auburn Tigers guard K.D. Johnson (0) attempts a basket against Yale Bulldogs forward Danny Wolf (1) during the first half of a game in the first round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament at Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

In a game that saw five ties and seven lead changes, the action was non-stop at the Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena. The Tigers started strong, leading by seven points after the first half but were unable to maintain their momentum as they were outscored in the second half. Despite this setback, Auburn's shooting was impressive with an overall field goal percentage of 51 and an even more remarkable two-point shooting percentage of 61.


Auburn's offense was led by their ability to convert inside, scoring 32 points in the paint compared to Yale's 22. However, it wasn't just about scoring; they also showed prowess on defense with three blocks and six steals during the game. Their fast break performance added another dimension to their playstyle as they scored 11 fast break points.


Mar 22, 2024; Spokane, WA, USA; Auburn Tigers forward Johni Broome (4) drives to the basket against Yale Bulldogs guard Bez Mbeng (2) during the first half of a game in the first round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament at Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Yale Bulldogs countered effectively with ten steals and capitalized on turnovers by scoring eight points off them. They also demonstrated accuracy from beyond the arc, sinking nine three-pointers at a rate of 45 percent which contributed significantly to keeping them within striking distance throughout.


The rebounding battle was fiercely contested; however, Auburn came out on top with a total of 35 rebounds—25 defensive and nine offensive—compared to Yale's total rebound count of 30. This advantage gave Auburn additional second-chance opportunities reflected in both teams securing seven second-chance points each.


Mar 22, 2024; Spokane, WA, USA; Auburn Tigers forward Johni Broome (4) attempts a basket against Yale Bulldogs forward Danny Wolf (1) during the first half of a game in the first round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament at Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Despite committing more personal fouls than Yale (25 against Yale’s 19), no Tiger players were fouled out during this intense matchup. Both teams shot free throws at an identical rate of 68 percent but it was free throw accuracy that ultimately helped seal victory for Yale who made six more free throws than Auburn.


As for individual performances from both sides remained unmentioned due to restrictions; however, it is clear that teamwork played a crucial role in this closely fought contest where every possession counted.


Looking ahead for fans who want to continue supporting their team live or from home can tune into future broadcasts scheduled according to Eastern Time Zone standards since Spokane operates under Pacific Time Zone rules.

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