Auburn University’s basketball team, ranked No. 20, is set to face NC State in the upcoming ACC/SEC Challenge. The game will take place on Wednesday at 8:15 p.m. CT. Coach Steven Pearl remains optimistic following a recent three-game stretch at the Players Era event in Las Vegas. The Tigers secured wins against Oregon and No. 14 St. John’s, sandwiching a defeat by No. 7 Michigan.
Game Preview: Auburn vs. NC State
Coach Pearl emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced mindset throughout the season. Despite the recent victory, he reminded his players to remain focused, particularly as they prepare for NC State, a team eager to improve after a 1-2 performance in the Maui Invitational.
NC State’s Journey
Led by former LSU coach Will Wade, NC State views this match as a crucial test. They have traveled nearly 10,000 miles for their season, which began in Hawaii, and are looking to rebound from losses against Seton Hall and Texas, with their only win against Boise State. Pearl noted, “They’re going to have their backs against the wall.”
- Game Date: Wednesday, 8:15 p.m. CT
- Auburn Record: 6-2
- NC State Record: 5-2
- Venue: Auburn Arena
Auburn’s Strategy
For Auburn, senior player Kevin Overton will face a challenging matchup against NC State’s leading scorer, Darrion Williams. Williams averages 18.7 points per game, while NC State’s overall shooting percentage from three-point range stands at an impressive 42.2%, making them particularly dangerous on the offensive end.
Pearl has urged fans, especially season ticket holders, to fill the arena in support of the team. He stressed the significance of creating a lively home atmosphere, especially since the game is one of the last opportunities to see the Tigers before conference play begins.
Upcoming Schedule
Auburn’s nonconference schedule is rigorous, featuring four teams currently in the top 10, including:
- No. 1 Purdue
- No. 2 Arizona
- No. 3 Michigan
- No. 8 Houston
This week’s challenge includes a trip to face the second-ranked Wildcats in Tucson. Pearl is excited about showing off the team’s defensive capabilities against high-powered offenses from both NC State and Arizona.
The game against NC State will be broadcast on ESPN and the Auburn Sports Network, ensuring fans can follow all the action as Auburn aims to continue its winning momentum.
