Takeaways: Auburn Basketball Shuts Down Virginia Tech, 74-57

Auburn ground out a win over Virginia Tech to secure their first victory in the inaugural SEC/ACC challenge.

The Tigers (5-1) were in control from tipoff, flying out to an 18-4 lead and never looked back.

Here are five takeaways from the Tigers' big win.

Gettin' out the Broome

It was complete domination from Broome down low tonight. A whopping 30 points, 13 rebounds, three blocks and a steal. His career high in points was 32 in a win over Murray State back in March of 2022, but Broome's performance tonight was arguably better.

Auburn hasn't seen a player go for 30+ since Jabari Smith scored 31 in a 2022 win over Vanderbilt.

Forgetting how to score

Auburn's offense - which is currently in the upper echelon of the SEC statistically - struggled to shoot the basketball tonight. A mere 38.7% from the floor and a pitiful 12.5% from deep.

The defense held its own however, holding the Hokies to 27.5% shooting and 30% from beyond the arc.

The Tigers were physical, aggressive, and kept VA Tech out of rhythm the entire night.

The art of the deal

Auburn continued to force Virginia Tech into 21 turnovers, half of which were non-steal turnovers. That near 50% non-steal turnover percentage is insanely high, and it makes the Tigers' defense more impressive.

The Tigers turned those 21 turnovers were converted into 30 (!) points. A great deal, if you ask Bruce Pearl & Co.

Freer throws have been had

Make your free throws.

The Tigers going 24-of-36 from the line (66.7%) is not ideal. Getting to the line that much and not being able to convert more points will prove to be costly in tighter, more physical games down the stretch.

Broome played very well tonight, but he's got to get better at the line or else an NCAA Tournament game like the Tigers' contest against Houston looms in the distance.

Shake 'N Baker-Mazara

Chad Baker-Mazara finished with 15 points, four rebounds and three assists. He's proven to be a solid slasher for the Tigers, filling his role on the wing perfectly. He left the game briefly with a hand injury but returned shortly after.

Pearl has been pleased with the early-season performances from Baker-Mazara and Chaney Johnson. The transfers are making immediate impact.

Recruiting pages to bookmark

2024 Auburn Tigers Commitment List and Evaluations

2025 Auburn Tigers Commitment List and Evaluations

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