.jpg)
2 hours ago
2
Auburn coach Steven Pearl believes the Tigers’ overall resume should be viewed a little differently as they fight to secure an NCAA Tournament berth.
Exiting Saturday’s rivalry matchup against Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Auburn owns a 16-14 record despite playing the nation’s toughest schedule. The Tigers likely need either a deep run in the SEC Men's Basketball Tournament to solidify their March Madness hopes.
However, Pearl suggested one loss should come with additional context.
According to ESPN's Tom Hart via On3, Pearl referenced the Feb. 7 loss to Alabama that included former Crimson Tide center Charles Bediako, who is no longer eligible.
“With the news that the committee would take into consideration that Charles Bediako played in the loss at home, Then what are we talking about? We’re 16-13. We’re good. We should be in," Hart said during the broadcast.
Bediako, a former NBA player, made a clear impact in that matchup, finishing with 12 points on 5-of-5 shooting with three rebounds in Alabama’s four-point victory. His performance came in what ultimately became his final game in an Alabama uniform this season.
More: Calls mount for TNT to fire Bruce Pearl before NCAA Tournament
While Auburn cannot erase the defeat from its record, Pearl’s argument might carry weight. The ongoing debate over how the selection committee weighs roster changes and player availability is still a work-in-progress.
For now, Auburn has a chance to settle matters on the court with an SEC run. If the Tigers can somehow move on and show strength, it will be tough to have them in the last four out.
More college basketball news:
- Darryn Peterson situation not alarming to NBA teams, ESPN insider says
- AJ Dybantsa makes college basketball history never done by NBA stars
- John Calipari says college athletics is broken — Here’s his plan to fix it
- Mike Krzyzewski fights against NCAA Tournament expansion
- Former NBA All-Star slams USC for dropping 'best player', five-star son next?
English (US)