Lahaina, HI (EETV)- Auburn and Arizona faced off last night in the third place game of the Maui Invitational. After the loss to Duke, Coach Pearl had challenged his players to finish strong.
The first half saw both teams hold each other under 30 points. Auburn held a 10 point lead with seven minutes to go but would go into halftime leading 28-22.
The second half sprung to life as Malik Dunbar and Bryce Brown took over combining for 22 points to help the Tigers defeat the Wildcats 73-57. Brown became the all-time leader in three pointers in Auburn history, breaking the 262 mark set by Wesley Person.
After the game, Coach Pearl said, "You can't help but to be honored to be in this field, in this incredible tournament. And then really proud that you represented. Our fans represented and traveled so well. Our kids learned a lot about themselves and the possibilities for this basketball team."
Auburn's leading scorers Bryce Brown, who had 19 points, and Malik Dunbar who had season high 15 points. Chuma Okeke added 10 points and Horace Spencer and Samir Doughty both had 7 points.
Auburn shot a season best 54 percent from the field and outscored Arizona 45-35 in the second half. Auburn's defense continues to impress as they forced 19 turnovers for 24 points. Auburn is averaging 18.7 turnovers a game and scoring 20.8 points per game.
The win improves Auburn's record to 5-1 and the Tigers will be back in Auburn Arena next Wednesday to play Saint Peter's at 7 PM.
