
In a thrilling SEC matchup on January 11, 2025, the No. 2 Auburn Tigers narrowly defeated the South Carolina Gamecocks 66-63, extending their winning streak to eight games.
The game took a concerning turn for Auburn when star forward Johni Broome exited with an ankle injury after defending a shot. Broome, who had contributed six points in 24 minutes, did not return, raising questions about his availability for upcoming games.
Despite Broome’s absence, Auburn’s resilience shone through. Dylan Cardwell’s pivotal dunk with 1:32 remaining secured the Tigers’ lead. Freshman guard Tahaad Pettiford led the team with 15 points, while Miles Kelly added 14, showcasing Auburn’s depth and adaptability.
South Carolina’s Collin Murray-Boyles delivered an impressive performance, scoring a game-high 25 points. His efforts kept the Gamecocks competitive, but they ultimately fell short in the final moments.
This victory bolsters Auburn’s position in the SEC standings and national rankings. However, Broome’s injury could impact their performance in future games, depending on his recovery. The Tigers will need to rely on their bench strength and the leadership of players like Pettiford and Kelly to maintain their momentum.
For South Carolina, the narrow loss highlights their potential to challenge top-tier teams. Murray-Boyles’ standout performance is a positive takeaway, indicating his growing role in the team’s offense. The Gamecocks can build on this experience as they prepare for upcoming conference matchups.
The game was part of a day filled with significant college basketball matchups, including contests involving teams like Duke, Iowa State, and Texas Tech, all with implications for the NCAA Tournament picture.
As the season progresses, both teams will aim to capitalize on the lessons learned from this closely contested game. Auburn’s ability to adapt without their star player and South Carolina’s competitive spirit suggest that both teams will be formidable opponents in the SEC.