Auburn head coach Steven Pearl is embracing the opportunity to keep his team playing as the Tigers prepare for an NIT semifinal showdown against the Illinois State Redbirds.
“Excited about the opportunity to go up to Indy and play against another quality opponent on ESPN,” Pearl said. “I’d rather be doing this than sitting around doing nothing.”
Auburn enters the matchup well-rested after a brief break between games, something Pearl believes has been critical at this stage of the season.
“It’s been really beneficial for our guys to have a little bit of time off to get treatments, get rest, get off their feet, and just kind of get recharged for this last push,” he said.
Illinois State's resume is as good as any
Illinois State presents a significant challenge, boasting one of the strongest résumés among remaining NIT teams. The Redbirds have picked up impressive wins over Kent State, Wake Forest, and Dayton, including back-to-back Quad 1 victories on the road.
“If you look at the resumes of teams in the NIT, they by far have the best one,” Pearl said.
Defensively, Illinois State’s physicality and effort stand out. Pearl emphasized their ability to stay disciplined while making plays.
“They’re really good defensively, play hard, try and make things difficult for you,” he said. “They make multiple efforts, are very physical at the point of attack, and do a great job of contesting without fouling.”
The Redbirds also pose a threat from beyond the arc, with multiple players capable of heating up quickly.
“It’s a team that can get hot in bunches,” Pearl said. “We’ve got to recognize who the shooters are, can’t give bad help, and we’ve got to carry a high hand.”
Inside, Auburn will be tasked with slowing down Chase Walker, who Pearl described as a difficult matchup.
“He’s an absolute handful,” Pearl said. “He’s able to bury you, score with either hand, and does a great job affecting the game with his physicality.”
For Auburn, guard Keyshawn Hall has continued to show growth during the postseason, something Pearl credited to his mindset.
“He was one of the main guys when the season ended that wanted to continue to play basketball and made that very vocal,” Pearl said. “I give him a ton of credit for that.”
The semifinal will be played at Hinkle Fieldhouse, a historic venue Pearl appreciates.
“Our guys have no idea what Hinkle Fieldhouse is, but some of us older folks have a real appreciation for it,” he said. “It’s really cool that we get to be a part of it.”
With a trip to the NIT championship on the line, Auburn will look to carry its momentum forward against a surging Illinois State squad.
“It’s going to be another great test for our guys,” Pearl said.