Overreactions from Auburn Basketball’s beatdown of Alabama

The Tigers drown the Tide in Neville Arena 99-81.

Thrilling, euphoric, and fun don’t begin to describe it. Auburn ran Alabama out of the gym, and it was every bit the 40 minute celebration you might imagine. The Tigers made the Elephants look small as Auburn’s frontline dominated the paint throughout the night. Auburn led by 14 at halftime and never looked back. Here are a few overreactions to tonight’s game.

Auburn has the best defense in college basketball

Tonight was a celebration of defense. It was a tribute to rebounding, a masterclass of effort. I love watching Bruce Pearl teams play defense. With this win, the Tigers climb to 4th in KenPom and 3rd in defensive efficiency. When this team is locked in, their effort makes them truly elite. The Tigers forced 15 turnovers tonight. Add 13 steals and 12 blocks, and you see why Auburn is among the best on the defensive end.

Johni Broome should win Player of the Year

With 24 points, five blocks, and two steals, Broome made a statement tonight. He electrified the building. He galvanized his team early and throughout. Broome bullied the Tide and truly embarrassed their frontline. I wasn’t ready to assert this before the game. I am now confident enough to say it. Johni Broome should win Naismith Player of the Year.

Auburn has the best home court advantage in the SEC

This isn’t much of an overreaction at this point. Kentucky has history, and Tennessee has numbers, but Neville Arena has truly separated itself and is getting national attention. The Jungle is being compared to the Cameron Crazies, and the design of Neville Arena to trap noise and create atmosphere is superior. The postseason tournaments aren’t played in Auburn, but if they were, the Tigers would cut down the nets. 28 wins in a row at home was impressive, but the Tigers have started a new streak that is now up to 15. Auburn is undefeated at home on the season with 15th ranked South Carolina coming to town for Valentines Day.

Tonight’s win puts Auburn back in a tie for 1st in the SEC. Coach Bruce Pearl's team will look to add to their winning streak this Saturday against Florida in Gainesville.