Graduate transfer LaRon Smith knows exactly what it is like for mid-major Georgia State to play on the road at a Power-5 school.
Smith understands how exciting it is for Georgia State to have a chance to upset Auburn in the Arena on Monday night, because he was in the same position at the same school as a freshman in 2012.
"For them, this is a very big game," Smith said. "When you are in that level, you look forward to this type of game. These are the games that you hope you catch a high major sleeping. You try and come in and win and go very hard."
Before landing on Bruce Pearl's squad, Smith held a spot on Georgia State's roster. The 6-foot-8 graduate student played for the Panthers his freshman and sophomore seasons, before transferring to Bethune Cookman where he earned national attention.
"It is a great opportunity to get to play against the first school I went to," Smith said. "I had a lot of hard times at that school, but I am glad that I overcame it, and it should be a very good game and very fun for me."
The Panthers are coached by Ron Hunter, who has coached Georgia State to 103 victories over the past five years, and a magical NCAA Tournament run two years ago.
Georgia State graduated four players last season that contributed to the Panthers recent success, but now house a young and talented roster. Hunter is expected to start transfers from Alabama, Indiana and Charlotte.
Pearl will likely continue his 10 man rotation that led the Tigers to a season-opening victory last Friday over North Florida. Pearl will counter a young Panther lineup with an equally young Tiger starting five that will likely include three freshman.
"There are going to be about two months of teaching moments with this team because it’s so young," Pearl said. "So, every practice is a teaching moment and every game is a teaching moment. But the thing about the teaching is how much are we going to learn? How much are we going to grow from that experience?"
Georgia State will enter Auburn Arena on Monday night with a 1-0 record after defeating Thomas University 111-69 last week. Tip-off is set for 8 p.m. CST and can be seen on the SEC Network.
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