In a recent post-game interview, Auburn Tigers head coach Bruce Pearl expressed his disappointment despite securing a victory. "About the only positive is that we won the game. That’s about it," he stated. Pearl described the team's performance as "embarrassing," highlighting the lack of energy and effort shown during the NCAA Tournament game. He emphasized that this kind of underperformance mirrors the issues that led to their early exit last year, stating, "We’ve got to be so much frickin’ better than we are right now."
Coach Pearl specifically called out players Johni Broome and Chad Baker-Mazara for their lackluster performance. Broome recorded a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds; however, he fell short in other areas, recording just one assist, no blocked shots, and three turnovers. His free throw shooting was also concerning, as he converted only 4 of 9 attempts. Baker-Mazara struggled significantly, scoring just five points on 1 of 9 shooting, along with two rebounds, three assists, and two turnovers.
“Johni and Chad have to be better. They have to be better in all aspects of the game,” Pearl asserted. He added, “And if they’re not, we will not win.” The coach hinted that he would challenge these players to elevate their game, expressing confusion over their performance, stating, "I have no idea why. No idea."
The Auburn Tigers' recent track record in the NCAA Tournament has not been favorable. They have failed to advance to the Sweet 16 in their last three tournament appearances. Last year, as a No. 4 seed, they suffered a first-round defeat at the hands of No. 13 seed Yale. In 2023, they lost to No. 1 seed Houston in the second round, and the previous year, a No. 2 seed Auburn fell to No. 10 seed Miami in the second round.
Player Cardwell, who joined Auburn in 2020—following their trip to the Final Four—expressed his desire to contribute to a deep tournament run. He emphasized the need for the team to play with more intensity and aggression. “We’re just not playing hard. We need to play harder and more aggressive,” he stated. Cardwell believes that when the team is functioning well, they become nearly unbeatable. “You’ve got the option of going out as the best team in Auburn history or the biggest bust in the country,” he remarked.
Cardwell’s passion for the game shines through as he reflects on the legacy of the team. “What more is it going to take? I don’t want to look back when I’m 40, I’m 50, I’m 60 and be like, ‘Dang, I wish I got past the first weekend. I wish I’d played in the Final Four,’” he said. He firmly believes in the team’s potential, stating, “We’re a great team. We’re one of the greatest teams in the country. That’s why we’re the No. 1 overall seed.” However, he acknowledges that their current performance doesn’t reflect that status.
As the Tigers prepare to face No. 9 seed Creighton in the second round on Saturday at Rupp Arena, the emphasis will be on improving their energy and execution. Coach Pearl and his players know that to achieve their goals, they must rise to the challenge and play to their full potential, ensuring they don’t repeat past mistakes in the NCAA Tournament.
