Auburn’s Bruce Pearl Provides Injury Updates Before SEC Tournament
As the grueling Southeastern Conference (SEC) schedule comes to a close, injuries have been a recurring challenge for many teams, and Auburn’s men’s basketball team has been no exception. Throughout the season, the Tigers have faced significant setbacks, losing multiple starters at different points due to various ailments.
One of Auburn’s key players, All-American forward Johni Broome, was sidelined for two games earlier in the season after suffering an ankle sprain. Additionally, starting point guard Denver Jones was unavailable for Auburn’s recent loss to Texas A&M due to a soft tissue injury in his ankle.
Starting wing Chad Baker-Mazara, although never missing a game, battled injuries throughout the second half of conference play. His condition affected his role in the lineup, leading to his absence from the starting five in several matchups, including Auburn’s victory over Alabama.
Now, as the SEC Tournament approaches, Auburn benefits from an extended six-day break, allowing players time to rest and recover following the regular season.
Addressing the team’s health situation ahead of the tournament, head coach Bruce Pearl expressed optimism.
“I think we’re coming into it pretty healthy, to be honest with you,” Pearl said on Wednesday while previewing the upcoming tournament. “Denver is probably feeling a little bit better. Chad is probably feeling a little bit better. Johni is getting back to 100%. So, while we’ve dealt with injuries, I do feel like, gosh, we could be in a lot worse shape.”
With Auburn’s first game set for Friday, the team must wait until Thursday afternoon to determine its quarterfinal opponent. The Tigers could potentially face South Carolina, Arkansas, or Ole Miss in their opening matchup.
While the team remains uncertain about its opponent, Pearl has structured practice sessions to focus on Auburn’s own improvements rather than specific game preparation. However, he noted that the coaching staff has been quietly preparing scouting reports for all three potential opponents.
“We took Sunday off, and then we worked Monday, Tuesday, and now here Wednesday, just on us,” Pearl explained. “We’ve really been working on us.”
Auburn’s quarterfinal matchup in the SEC Tournament is scheduled for noon on Friday and will be broadcast on ESPN.
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