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Auburn basketball’s opening games will serve as an early indicator of just how good this team can be. As players become more familiar with their roles, Auburn will have the chance to build confidence and team identity while also finding ways to grow. Even though early results do not matter as much as conference play, the Tigers’ early results can reveal more about their potential as they head into tougher stretches of their schedule.
The first test for Auburn is their home game against Arizona on Nov. 13. That game comes right before they head to Las Vegas for the Players Era Tournament. This early matchup will give fans a chance to see how Auburn can compete against a quality opponent.
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For Auburn to be victorious over the Wildcats in Neville, they will need to change how they played against Arizona last year. In that meeting, Arizona came out on top by a large margin. This time around, Auburn needs to establish a fast-paced, defense-minded game plan for them to win.
Auburn Tigers guard Tahaad Pettiford (0) takes a jump shot as Auburn Tigers take on the Houston Cougars at Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Ala. on Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025. Houston Cougars lead Auburn Tigers 39-35 at halftime. Photo Credit: USA Today Network via Reuters Connect
In their battle last season, Tahaad Pettiford was the only bright spot for Auburn. Pettiford scored 30 points on 10-for-19 from the field. The lefty guard has the speed and ability to have the Arizona defense on their heels at all times.
Pettiford and last year’s NIT MVP, Kevin Overton, need to push the pace and get out and run in transition every single time they have the ball. Arizona has new pieces coming in this season, like UNC transfer Derek Dixon and freshman Caleb Holt. For Auburn to establish their presence early, they will need to speed up Arizona on offense and create turnovers that can lead to easy transition points.
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Publish date : 2026-10-06 16:00:00
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