AUBURN, Ala. (EETV)- Despite going into the half in a tight 29-27 game, the Tigers strong offensive performance in the second half lead to a 72-56 victory over Texas Southern and the 42nd consecutive win at home against a non-conference team.
Auburn opened up the second half hot with an 11-0 run, pulling ahead with a nine point lead and snapping the close game. A William's 3-pointer got the momentum rolling, then Wendell Green Jr., Zep Jasper each scored and Johnson added four free throws to put the Tigers up 40-31.
KD Johnson, Jaylin Williams and Chris Moore racked up 44 points collectively, but it was Johnson who led the orange and blue in scoring with 16 points. Williams and Moore each added 14 points a piece, and Moore's 11 in the second half was 100% on shooting. Williams led the team in rebounds with eight, assists with four and steals with four while blocking two shots.
Auburn took their greatest lead following a memorable play in which KD Johnson stole the ball and passed up the backboard to set up an Allen Flanigan reverse dunk.
The Tigers were forced to switch up their starting lineup with Johni Broome out following an injury from a knee collision during Tuesday's win over Withrop.
The No.13 Tigers now sit at 4-0 to start the season. Up next for Bruce Pearl and the boys is a trip to Mexico for the Cancun Challenge. Auburn plays Bradley Tuesday at 5 p.m. CT and either Northwestern or Liberty on Wednesday at either 5 p.m. or 7:30 p.m.
