Three Stock Risers From Auburn’s 78-63 Win Over Mississippi State

The Auburn Tigers collected their 22nd double-digit win of the season.

The Auburn Tigers win in dominant fashion at home. 

We’ve seen this movie before. Bruce Pearl’s team leads the nation in double-digit wins and got another one Saturday. The Tigers led by 19 late in the first half and kept a scrappy Mississippi State Bulldogs team at bay for the remainder of the game. This team is proving they are a force to be reckoned with.

Auburn is ranked 5th in the nation in the KenPom rankings and should fear no one. With two games left to go, the Tigers can get to 24 wins before postseason play and should be a top 4 seed in the NCAA Tournament. 

Here are a few stock risers from today's game.

Denver Jones

Denver Jones averaged over 20 points per game last year winning awards in his conference. It has been a transition, and Jones didn’t appear comfortable to start the year. Anyone who is used to scoring 20 points has confidence and ability. That confidence is finally starting to develop at this level and Jones is starting to look confident and aggressive. Shooting 3/5 from three and scoring 15 points, Denver Jones is starting to take over in moments and could be a huge key for a team that lacks physical guard play.

Chaney Johnson

Shooting 2/2 from three, today was a breakout game for Chaney Johnson. Jaylin William’s injury has opened up opportunities for others to find their game and shine. Johnson has had dominant moments on the hardwood lately and has been more aggressive offensively. This is the perfect time for Auburn’s new additions to start hitting their stride. 

You want to peak in March. That is happening for Chaney Johnson.

Chad Baker-Mazara

Baker-Mazara is becoming a glue guy for the Tigers. There is a theatric element to his game, almost a more vocal offensive Dennis Rodman. Johni Broome may be Auburn’s best player, but Chad Baker-Mazara is this team’s heart. He leads in the locker room. He makes plays. He is now getting more minutes, which is translating to more points. He is a great shooter, but his strength is his energy. If the Tigers make a deep tournament run, look for Baker-Mazara’s passion to be a driving force.

Auburn will next take the court Tuesday at Missouri.