The Auburn Tigers, fresh off a mixed finish last season, are roaring into a new campaign against the Baylor Bears on November 7. The Tigers, who closed their previous season with a tough loss to Houston, are eyeing redemption. Baylor is eager to rebound from their exit in the NCAA Tournament. With the odds slightly in favor of the Bears, this clash promises to be a spectacle of college basketball’s relentless spirit.

Poised for a Breakthrough Season

The Auburn Tigers, coming off a rollercoaster 20-12 record last season, are gearing up for a redemption arc under the guidance of seasoned coach Bruce Pearl. Last season’s performance—capped by a first-round NCAA tournament win—fell short of the high-flying expectations at Auburn. However, with key players like Johni Broome and Jaylin Williams withdrawing from the NBA draft to return to the court, the Tigers’ roster is fortified with experienced hands on deck. Broome’s dominance in the paint, notching an impressive 14.2 points and 8.4 rebounds per game, along with Williams’ all-around contribution of 11.2 points and 4.7 rebounds, sets a solid foundation. Their stats are enhanced, with Broome’s shot-blocking prowess and Williams’ ability to stretch the floor from downtown promising a formidable frontcourt duo.

Auburn bid farewell to pivotal players like Wendell Green Jr., who inked a deal with Cleveland. The absence of Green’s 13.7-point average and command in assists and steals will be noticeable. Yet, the Tigers have reinforcements stepping up, with seniors K.D. Johnson and Dylan Cardwell are ready to elevate their game and fill the gaps. Johnson’s sharpshooting from beyond the arc and Cardwell’s defensive clout, especially in blocking shots, add depth to the squad. Moreover, the arrival of five-star freshman Aden Holloway might just be the spark needed to ignite the backcourt. The anticipation is high, and with Pearl at the helm, the Tigers’ roar this season might just echo through to March Madness.

A New Chapter on the Hardwood

The Baylor Bears, under the astute leadership of Coach Scott Drew, are poised to author a new chapter after closing the 2022-23 season with a 23-11 record. The departure of key players has set the stage for a rebuild. The Bears have bounced back before. This season, they’re ranked 20th in the preseason AP poll, reflecting a cautious optimism surrounding the team’s prospects.

Last year, Baylor’s tenacity was tested; they stumbled in both the Big 12 and NCAA tournaments. Coach Drew has seamlessly integrated new talents like RayJ Dennis and Jayden Nunn, who bring seasoned gameplay to the mix. The addition of 5-star recruit Ja’Kobe Walter as a sharpshooter and Yves Missi’s towering presence in the paint promises plenty of wins ahead. With Jalen Bridges returning to fortify the Bears’ frontline, Baylor’s offense is expected to be robust, especially from beyond the arc, where they excelled with a 36.8% shooting last season.

However, Baylor’s defense needs tightening; the Bears allowed a 53.3% field goal percentage from close range. The upcoming season is a proving ground, with the potential to solidify their defense while maintaining their offensive firepower. The acquisition of talented players seems to be a promising blend of skill and experience, potentially elevating the Bears’ play. The Bears’ potential is sky-high; with a lethal perimeter offense, they could very well contend for the Big 12 crown and dance deep into March. 

David’s Pick –  Auburn Tigers 

The Auburn Tigers are poised to beat the Baylor Bears in an epic showdown. Auburn, with a respectable 20-12 finish last season, is simmering with potential. Under the tactical brilliance of Bruce Pearl, they’re looking to upgrade last year’s narrative with a roster rich in both talent and experience. Johni Broome and Jaylin Williams, opting to continue in school over the lure of the NBA, bolster the Tigers’ frontcourt significantly, combining for an average of 25.4 points and 13.1 rebounds per game last season. 

The Bears boast a sharpshooter in Ja’Kobe Walter and the veteran savvy of Jalen Bridges, but the Tigers’ new additions and depth in the bench give Auburn a big advantage. Auburn’s hunger, Pearl’s playbook precision, and the blend of raw talent with seasoned players on the court position them as the frontrunners. The Bears, in a year of transition, might be formidable, but the Tigers are entering the season with a clear vision: to dominate. Expect Auburn to emerge victorious, as their depth, defensive tenacity, and offensive firepower prove too potent for Baylor’s new guns.