I'm consolidating the players and Bruce into the same thread because that makes sense to me.
Bruce is going first:
He thinks Auburn respected its opponent
Auburn had a size advantage - it took them a bit to use it, but Johni Broome proved why he's an All-American.
Auburn's next four opponents are "Elite 8" caliber teams
Pearl on the scoring tonight: "It was a great balance of inside-out... thought we could've done a better job in the fast break"
Pearl said that he didn't like how the starting lineup started but liked how they came out in the second half. Also mentioned that guys such as Chaney Johnson and Tahaad Pettiford could find their way into the lineup eventually
Pearl is asked about Auburn forcing each team it has faced to a negative ast/to ratio: "You can do that sometimes when you have good one-on-one defenders."
Pearl mentioned that they forced North Alabama, who plays a similar style to Auburn, to make one-on-one plays
Pearl asked about taking opponents seriously: "We haven't had much adversity. I try to give my guys adversity by coaching them hard... I have very high expectations for. my players."
Jacari Lane was in hell the final 20 minutes: "We did everything we could to defend him." Pearl mentioned that he probably wore out in the second half but that Auburn did a good job of defending without fouling.
That's all for BP, now it's time for Denver and Johni:
Johni taking over after UNA took the lead: "I walk into every game looking to take over... today it was scoring the ball, rebounding the ball."
Denver 9 assists: "It's been a little bit of an adjustment playing point because I didn't play it last year. And honestly it's just being aggressive... I was able to find shooters... it just took care of itself."
Johni on Dylan: "It's fun playing next to Dylan... I feel like he's letting the game come to him." Mentioned that he's playing with great confidence and wants him to keep doing so.
Same Lane question, Denver: "In the locker room at halftime we stressed keeping our man in front." Mentioned that they had to lock in defensively
Denver on Bruce creating adversity: "I feel like it started in practice." Mentioned that they play to the buzzer in practice and that carries over to the game
Johni on hitting a three tonight: "I haven't been shooting the best this season so it was good to see one go in... seeing one go in was definitely exciting."
Dude has been unbelievable through these first few games & has taken a serious step forward since last season. My vote for most improved player. Even though he put up just 8 points tonight he’s efficient and exactly what Bruce needs him to be
