After a loss at No. 15 Tennessee on Thursday, Auburn women's basketball looks to bounce back at home in hopes of picking up their fourth win of SEC play against Vanderbilt.
The Tigers, now sitting at 12-13 (3-9 in SEC play) on the year, had been playing much better until the Tennessee game, where they fell apart. However, they have a chance to get back on track at home. Outside of an outstanding game from DeYona Gatson, who recorded 24 points and 12 rebounds, the Tigers struggled to hit their shots from three and the free-throw line. Auburn will need to shoot better to secure a crucial home win.
The Vanderbilt Commodores are 18-7 overall but have struggled somewhat in SEC play at 5-6. They are on a three-game losing streak and coming off a double-overtime, heartbreaking loss to Mississippi State. Vanderbilt boasts one of the best offenses in the SEC, averaging 84.2 points per game. With only five games remaining in the regular season before the SEC Tournament, the Commodores are looking for a much-needed win.
Players to Watch:
Auburn:
DeYona Gatson – When talking about the Tigers, you have to start with Gatson, who is arguably one of the best players in the SEC this year. She has been putting up great numbers all season and dominating inside, averaging 22 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. She will have a key matchup with Vanderbilt’s Khamil Pierre, another top forward.
Yuting Deng – Since joining the Tigers midseason, Deng has been a major bright spot offensively with her ability to shoot—something Auburn desperately needs on Sunday. She is averaging just over 10 points per game while leading the team at 37.8% from three. If Deng can get hot, Auburn’s offense will have a better chance of keeping up with Vanderbilt’s high-powered attack.
Vanderbilt:
Khamil Pierre – Pierre has been one of the best players in the SEC, averaging a double-double with 21.3 points and 10.1 rebounds per game. She is dominant in the paint but can also stretch the floor. Her matchup with Gatson is highly anticipated and will be one to watch.
Mikayla Blakes – When discussing the top guards in the SEC, Blakes has to be in the conversation. She has been stellar this season, averaging 21.8 points, three rebounds, and three assists per game. A skilled shooter, playmaker, and finisher, she will be a tough challenge for Auburn’s defense.
This matchup is headlined by the battle between DeYona Gatson and Khamil Pierre, two of the best forwards in the SEC and the country. Auburn’s defense, which ranks in the top seven in the SEC in points allowed at 63.8 per game, will be tested against Vanderbilt’s top-five offense. Ultimately, the game will come down to whether the Tigers can contain—or keep up with—Vanderbilt’s dynamic duo of Pierre and Blakes.
Tipoff between Auburn and Vanderbilt is scheduled for 3 p.m. CST inside of Neville Arena with television coverage available on the SEC Network.
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Jack is a sophomore majoring in sports production. He started with The Plainsman in the fall 2024.
