In today's edition of Auburn Tigers News, head coach Bruce Pearl and freshman Tahaad Pettiford react to the Tigers' big win in Space City
Houston had a big problem on Saturday night, and it came in the form of the Auburn basketball team. After the drama of getting to Houston—Plane Gate—there was concern that distractions would be a factor in the Tigers' matchup.
But drama and distractions did not plague the team, and instead, they went on to pull off a massive 74-69 win over the No. 4 Houston Cougars. It was Auburn's first-ever win over a top-four non-conference opponent.
"The guys came together after some adversity," head coach Bruce Pearl said, per Auburn Undercover. "I just couldn't be prouder."
It was a second-half masterclass for Auburn basketball, and Pearl credited his coaching staff for the success.
"I can't say enough about our coaching staff and our preparation," Pearl said, per Auburn Rivals. "First of all, Steven Pearl had the scout, just an incredible game plan. He is ready. Mike Burgomaster called every offensive play in the second half. I went with every play he put forward. And we did a pretty good job designing some plays this week."
Tahaad Pettiford shines vs. the Cougars
Auburn basketball freshman guard Tahaad Pettiford was pretty quiet during the Tigers' debut against Vermont, but he shone brightly in the matchup against Houston.
"It wasn't my day (against Vermont), but it was my teammates'," Pettiford said, per Auburn Undercover. "Coach always tells us not every game is going to be your game, but just be ready when the time comes. Today was my time."
In 24 minutes of action, Pettiford scored 21 points, going 7-12 from the field and 5-8 from behind the three-point arc. Pettiford and veteran Johni Broome teamed up to carry the Tigers in the second half, and the determination to finish strong ultimately paved the way for the win.
"We preached all week that it's a 40-minute game," said Pettiford, per Auburn Rivals. "It's not 20. Just because we're down, it doesn't mean we're not gonna have a run and come back and do what we have to do. We just kept pushing until the clock hit zero."
The 2-0 Tigers will next face Kent State in Neville Arena on Wednesday at 7:00 p.m.