Throughout the demanding South eastern Conference schedule, injuries are almost inevitable.
Auburn men’s basketball has faced particularly tough luck with injuries this season, with multiple starters side lined at different times. All-American forward Johni Broome missed two games due to an ankle sprain, while starting point guard Denver Jones was absent in Auburn’s recent loss to Texas A&M due to a soft tissue injury in his ankle.
However, head coach Bruce Pearl remains optimistic about the team’s health heading into the tournament. “I think we’re coming into it pretty healthy, to be honest with you,” Pearl said on Wednesday. “I think Denver is probably feeling a little better. Chad probably feels a little better. Johni is getting back to 100%. Not to downplay those injuries, but honestly, we could be in much worse shape.”
With Auburn’s first opponent undecided until Thursday afternoon, Pearl has used practice time to focus on self-improvement. Still, he noted that the coaching staff has been quietly preparing scouting reports on potential quarterfinal opponents: South Carolina, Arkansas, and Ole Miss.
Starting wing Chad Baker-Mazara has played through injuries during the latter half of conference play, even missing a few starts, including Auburn’s victory over Alabama.
Auburn benefits from a six-day break before the SEC Tournament, allowing the team time to rest and recover. “We took Sunday off, and we worked Monday, Tuesday, and now here Wednesday, just on us,” Pearl said. “We’ve really been focusing on ourselves.”
Auburn’s SEC Tournament quarterfinal matchup against either South Carolina, Arkansas, or Ole Miss is set for noon on Friday, airing on ESPN.
