After a long offseason, the Auburn Tigers return to action against the No. 20 Baylor Bears at Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, S.D. to open the 2023-2024 college basketball season.
Auburn's roster underwent a lot of transition this offseason. Some core pieces still remain in place, but the Tigers will have a new look.
What are the biggest things to look for in Auburn's season opener?
What can be expected from Auburn's returners?
Two of Auburn's biggest contributors from last season, Johni Broome and Jaylin Williams, are back for another season.
Auburn has a young roster so it will be leaning on these guys early in the year. If they can play at a high level, Auburn will be in good shape. If not, that could be a problem.
What will freshman Aden Holloway be able to do?
Auburn brought in a 5-star point guard in Aden Holloway this offseason. He was not able to play in Auburn's exhibition so this will be his first taste of game action.
Holloway will surely have his changes to make an impact, but how big will it be?
How will Auburn do on defense?
Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl has expressed concern with his team's ability to play defense.
Baylor is a talented team at both ends of the floor. If Auburn can't slow down the Bears' offensive attack, it will be hard for the Tigers to win this game.
How big of a role will Auburn's transfers play?
With only one incoming freshman, Auburn leaned heavily on the transfer portal this season.
Denver Jones, a guard who transferred to Auburn from FIU this offseason, is expected to be one of the leading scorers for the Tigers this season. If that is the case, Auburn will be in a good position to succeed this season.
Tip-off is set for 8 p.m. CT, and ESPN will carry the broadcast.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email daniel.locke@1819news.com.
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