The Auburn Tigers are set to continue their preseason preparation with a challenging exhibition game against Florida Atlantic University (FAU) on Friday night at Neville Arena. This game offers Auburn a chance to fine-tune its strategy against a tougher opponent following their initial scrimmage against Furman. FAU comes off a strong 25-9 season, which included a Final Four appearance in the 2023 NCAA Tournament, making them a formidable preseason test for Auburn.
Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl anticipates a tougher matchup this time due to FAU’s athleticism and depth. He highlighted FAU’s balanced combination of size on the front line, experienced guards, and a versatile defensive approach, all of which will require Auburn to elevate their game. “The difference between Florida Atlantic and Furman would be the athleticism there,” Pearl commented. “They’ve got size, length, veteran guards, and good depth. We will have to play better against Florida Atlantic than we did against Furman to win the game.”
One of FAU’s standout players is guard Johnell Davis, who averaged an impressive 18.2 points per game last season while shooting 41.4% from three-point range. His scoring ability, especially from beyond the arc, will present a challenge for Auburn’s defense and could test the Tigers’ readiness on that end of the floor.
For Auburn, an added boost comes from the anticipated return of point guard Miles Kelly, a transfer from Georgia Tech. Kelly missed the game against Furman due to illness, but he will see limited minutes against FAU as he gradually returns to form. “Miles had his first contact practice yesterday,” Pearl said. “He’s available and will play, but won’t play a ton of minutes. It’ll be great to have him back after being out a couple of weeks.”
While Auburn’s defense showed promise against Furman, Pearl is focused on seeing a stronger offensive performance this time around. He emphasized the team’s historically strong defense, which he hopes to rely on consistently this season, but acknowledged that improving offensive efficiency is essential. “A year ago, we were one of the best defensive teams in the country. Defense travels,” he said. “I’m hoping that’s something we can count on this year. Offensively, we’re going to have to play better than we played Sunday to be more efficient scoring the ball.”
The game tips off at 7 p.m. CT at Neville Arena. Although it will not be televised, fans can listen to the Auburn Sports Network broadcast on affiliate stations across Alabama or stream it online. This matchup will provide valuable experience as Auburn works to sharpen its game in anticipation of the regular season.
