3 Games that Defined Auburn Tigers Final Four Run

The Auburn Tigers’ journey to the Final Four in the 2018-2019 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament was one of the most exciting and unexpected runs in recent memory. From a team that was overlooked and doubted throughout much of the season to a squad that reached the pinnacle of college basketball, the Tigers captivated fans with their resilience, determination, and explosive play. While there were several games that contributed to their historic tournament run, three specific matchups stand out as defining moments in Auburn’s path to the Final Four. These games showcase the team’s tenacity, skill, and ability to overcome adversity.

1. Auburn vs. Kansas (Round of 32, 2019 NCAA Tournament)
   The second-round matchup against Kansas was a crucial moment in Auburn’s tournament run. The Jayhawks, led by coach Bill Self, had been a perennial powerhouse in college basketball and were widely considered one of the tournament’s favorites. On paper, Kansas had the talent and pedigree to make a deep run, but Auburn, led by head coach Bruce Pearl, was ready to defy the odds.

   Key Moments and Impact
   Auburn entered the game with a sense of urgency. Kansas was expected to advance with ease, but the Tigers stunned the Jayhawks early with a fast-paced, high-intensity style of play. The game was a clash of contrasting styles, with Kansas relying on their more methodical, structured offense and Auburn pushing the tempo. The Tigers’ relentless defense, combined with their ability to create turnovers and score in transition, gave them the edge.

   The defining moment came in the second half when Auburn exploded offensively. The Tigers were led by their star player, Bryce Brown, who poured in a team-high 25 points. Brown’s performance, along with significant contributions from Jared Harper and Chuma Okeke, helped Auburn stretch their lead in the final minutes. Kansas struggled to find an answer to Auburn’s defense, particularly when the Tigers’ full-court press disrupted the Jayhawks’ rhythm.

   Auburn’s 89-75 victory over Kansas was a statement win. It was clear that the Tigers were not just a team of talent but also a squad that was mentally tough and prepared to handle the pressure of the tournament. The win propelled them to the Sweet 16 and established them as a legitimate contender in the tournament.

   Significance
   Beating Kansas was an important statement for Auburn, as it showed the team had the ability to take down one of the top teams in the country. The win also solidified their place among the tournament’s elite teams, boosting their confidence heading into the next round.

2. Auburn vs. North Carolina (Sweet 16, 2019 NCAA Tournament)
   One of the most unforgettable moments of Auburn’s 2019 tournament run came when they faced the North Carolina Tar Heels in the Sweet 16. North Carolina, coached by Roy Williams, was another heavy favorite to make a deep run. The Tar Heels were balanced, with a mix of size, skill, and experience, led by future NBA stars like Coby White and Cameron Johnson. Many believed Auburn would struggle against the physicality and talent of North Carolina, but once again, the Tigers defied expectations.

   Key Moments and Impact
   From the outset, Auburn was undeterred. The game was high-paced, with both teams pushing the tempo and trading baskets. Auburn’s ability to hit three-pointers—particularly from Brown and Harper—kept the Tigers in the game early on. While North Carolina was able to generate some offense with their inside game, Auburn’s perimeter shooting and fast breaks kept the game close.

   The key to Auburn’s victory in this game was their second-half explosion. Auburn’s defense ramped up, forcing North Carolina into tough shots and getting out on the break. At the same time, Auburn’s offense was firing on all cylinders, with Brown scoring 16 points and Harper contributing 14 points and 5 assists. Chuma Okeke’s versatility on both ends of the floor was also pivotal, as he scored 20 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, and added 4 assists in a complete performance.

   One of the most memorable moments of the game came in the final minutes when Auburn was able to hold off a late surge from North Carolina. With the Tigers leading by just a few points, their defense was critical in preventing the Tar Heels from getting easy baskets. A clutch three-pointer by Brown, followed by some key free throws, sealed the 97-80 victory for Auburn.

   Significance
   Auburn’s win over North Carolina was one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. Beating a historically dominant program like North Carolina in such a decisive fashion was a testament to the Tigers’ skill and determination. The victory also set the stage for their appearance in the Elite Eight, where they would face yet another tough opponent.

3. Auburn vs. Kentucky (Elite Eight, 2019 NCAA Tournament)
   The Elite Eight matchup against Kentucky was perhaps the most dramatic game of Auburn’s tournament run. The Wildcats, coached by John Calipari, were another powerhouse, and the game was a matchup of two of the most storied programs in college basketball history. Kentucky had the talent, including future NBA players like Tyler Herro and PJ Washington, and were heavily favored to advance to the Final Four.

   Key Moments and Impact
   From the beginning, the game was a back-and-forth affair. Auburn’s defense, which had been a hallmark of their tournament run, was tested against Kentucky’s offensive firepower. In particular, Kentucky’s size and athleticism in the frontcourt created problems for Auburn early on. However, Auburn remained poised and relied on their perimeter shooting and transition game to stay in the contest.

   The defining moment of the game came in the final seconds, with Auburn holding a slim one-point lead. With just 0.9 seconds remaining, Kentucky had a chance to win the game at the free-throw line. However, the tension was palpable, as Kentucky’s star guard, Tyler Herro, stepped to the line for two free throws. The first free throw missed, and Herro had to attempt a second to tie the game. In a moment of immense pressure, the Auburn defense remained calm, and Herro’s second free throw also missed, sending the Tigers to their first-ever Final Four with a dramatic 77-71 win.

   Significance
   Auburn’s victory over Kentucky was a historic moment for the program, as it marked the Tigers’ first-ever trip to the Final Four. It was a game that required not just skill, but also composure under immense pressure. The win solidified Auburn’s place among the elite teams in college basketball and gave the Tigers a chance to compete for a national championship.

Auburn’s run to the Final Four in 2019 was a remarkable journey, filled with moments of brilliance, drama, and excitement. The wins over Kansas, North Carolina, and Kentucky were the defining games of the Tigers’ tournament run, each showcasing different facets of their team: their ability to score in transition, their defensive intensity, and their resilience in the face of pressure. These three games cemented Auburn’s place in NCAA tournament history, as the Tigers became one of the most unforgettable Cinderella stories in recent memory.