Auburn Makes History with Win Over Texas, Bruce Pearl Sets School Record

Auburn basketball achieved a historic milestone Tuesday night with an 87-82 victory over the Texas Longhorns in Austin. The win not only marked the Tigers’ first game in Austin in 70 years but also cemented Bruce Pearl as the all-time winningest coach in Auburn history with 214 wins.

The victory improved Auburn’s record to 14-1 as they continue their strong campaign. The Tigers will now prepare to travel to South Carolina this weekend before returning home to face Mississippi State.

Tigers Set the Tone Early with Defense

Auburn’s defense was the driving force behind their fast start, forcing nine Texas turnovers in the first half and converting those mistakes into 12 points. The Tigers maintained their intensity throughout the game, finishing with 10 blocks and six steals as a team.

Despite Texas forward Artur Kaluma’s remarkable 34-point performance, the Longhorns struggled from long range. Kaluma scored 14 of his points in the first half, but outside of his contributions, Texas failed to hit a single three-pointer in the opening period.

Auburn’s Offense Shines

While Auburn’s defense kept Texas in check, their offense delivered a standout performance. The Tigers shot over 50% from the field and beyond the arc in the first half.

Miles Kelly sparked Auburn’s early momentum, hitting his first three three-pointers and finishing with 18 points. Johni Broome anchored the frontcourt with a dominant double-double, tallying a team-high 20 points and 12 rebounds. Chad Baker-Mazara and Tahaad Pettiford combined for 26 points, while Auburn knocked down eight three-pointers as a team.

Auburn’s Path to No. 1

With their latest win, Auburn is in prime position to claim the No. 1 spot in the AP and Coaches Polls. Current top-ranked Tennessee suffered a blowout loss to Florida, leaving the door open for the Tigers to ascend.

Auburn boasts an impressive résumé, including seven Quad I wins. Notable victories include triumphs over No. 3 Iowa State, No. 15 Houston, No. 16 Purdue (by 18 points), and No. 21 Memphis (by 14 points). Their only loss came on the road to No. 5 Duke.

If Auburn can maintain their momentum and secure another victory this weekend, they may officially rise to the top of college basketball’s rankings for the first time this season.