Auburn, AL (EETV)- Auburn got a win for the conference as they defeated the Iowa State Cyclones 80-76 in the annual Big 12/SEC Challenge.
The Tigers started the game unlike most of their previous ones with an early barrage of three point-shots to take a seven point lead. Auburn shot 45 percent from three-range in the first half hitting nine from long range.
Coach Pearl commented on his team's shooting saying, “I thought pace was really good. I thought we were getting really good inside-out looks. Obviously, it was great to see Danjel (Purifoy) get comfortable. When Anfernee McLemore is making shots, things really open up for us offensively. So you have two bigs that are making six 3s, I don't care what you're running, your offense is going to run better."
Auburn ended the half with a clutch three pointer from Danjel Purifoy to give them an eleven point lead going into haltime.
The Cyclones would make a furious comeback attempt led by Rasir Bolton who would lead all scorers 23 points. Bolton would cut the Auburn lead to just five points late in the game but it wouldn't be enough as the Tigers would get win nummber seventeen.
Leading Auburn in scoring was Isacc Okoro who dropped 19 points. Samir Doughty scored 18 points three assists and one steal. Danjel Purifoy and J'von McCormick would both 11 points in the game as four Tigers were in double-digits.
Auburn's record is now 17-2 (4-2 SEC) and they will go on the road to face Ole Miss in Oxford, Mississippi on Wednesday night before hosting Kentucky next Saturday. Wednesday's game will tip-off at 8pm with the game to be televised on ESPNU.
