Auburn is set to battle Tulsa in the NIT title game. Here's what our staff expects of the upcoming matchup:
Rory Garvin, Sports Reporter: Auburn 86-74
Going into the NIT, many questioned whether Auburn would be ready to compete after missing out on the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2021.
However, that question was quickly answered, as the Tigers have won four straight games and are playing for the NIT title Sunday night.
Auburn will have to closely guard the 3-point line as Tulsa loves to shoot from downtown. If they can do that, the orange and blue should be able to finish the job in Indianapolis behind a strong performance from guard Keyshawn Hall in what will be his final collegiate game.
“Our guys have done a really good job of respecting our opponents up to this point, and it's shown the last couple games. And Tulsa is going to be no different,” head coach Steven Pearl said.
Gunner Norene, Sports Writer: Auburn 89-81
Auburn seeks its first-ever NIT championship on Sunday against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane, but it certainly won't be an easy task.
Tulsa's biggest strength is its 3-point shooting, as the 30-win squad out of the American Conference averages nearly 11 made threes per game and boasts two players — Miles Barnstable and Ade Popoola — who both shoot over 40% from behind the arc.
On the other hand, one of the Tigers' most prominent weaknesses has been perimeter defense, but I think their physicality and, potentially, another impressive showing from Kevin Overton will propel Steven Pearl and company to a historic win.
Will Dembo, Sports Writer: Auburn 83-76
Auburn has its eyes set on its first-ever NIT title, and I believe the Tigers will keep rolling and capture a victory over Tulsa. The Golden Hurricane will keep it close in the first half with their high-performing offense, but Auburn should be able to pull away late if players such as Keyshawn Hall and Kevin Overton can continue their hot streaks inside of Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Gwendolyn McCasland, Sports Writer: Auburn 81-73
Auburn has its hands full in the NIT championship with Tulsa, but I think it will use this game to prove it could have competed well in the NCAA Tournament. I think Auburn will lead going into halftime, and the Golden Hurricane will close the gap in the middle of the second half. However, if Kevin Overton can produce heavy second-half points like he has for most of the NIT, I think he will lead the Tigers to victory in Indianapolis.
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