Event Preview
Overview
On Saturday, December 6, 2025, the No. 2 Arizona Wildcats will host the No. 21 Auburn Tigers at the McKale Center in Tucson, Arizona. This highly anticipated matchup marks the beginning of a home-and-home series between the two programs, with the return game in Auburn to be scheduled in the future. The game is set to tip off at 8:00 PM MST (7:00 PM PST), and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN. (s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com)
Season Snapshot
Arizona Wildcats
The Wildcats enter this game with an undefeated record of 7-0, showcasing a strong start to their season. Under head coach Tommy Lloyd, Arizona has been known for its high-paced offense and solid defense. Their most recent victory was a commanding 98-61 win over Norfolk State, where center Motiejus Krivas led the team with 20 points. (foxsports.com)
Auburn Tigers
The Tigers come into this contest with a 7-2 record. Auburn's season has been marked by impressive performances, including a notable 83-73 win against NC State, where guard Kevin Overton scored 29 points. (dunkelindex.com) However, they recently suffered an 84-78 loss to No. 9 Duke, despite strong individual performances from Johni Broome and Tahaad Pettiford, who each scored 20 points. (reuters.com)
Recent Form
Arizona has demonstrated consistent dominance, winning their last seven games by significant margins. Their offense has been particularly effective, averaging 87.3 points per game, while their defense has held opponents to 67.0 points per game. (espn.com)
Auburn, on the other hand, has shown resilience despite recent setbacks. Their offense is potent, averaging 87.9 points per game, and they have a strong rebounding presence, averaging 39.2 rebounds per game. The Tigers are looking to bounce back from their loss to Duke and continue their strong start to the season. (espn.com)
Talking Points
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High-Scoring Offenses: Both teams boast potent offenses, with Arizona averaging 87.3 points per game and Auburn slightly ahead at 87.9. Fans can expect an up-tempo game with plenty of scoring opportunities.
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Rebounding Battle: Auburn leads in rebounding, averaging 39.2 boards per game compared to Arizona's 34.8. Controlling the glass will be crucial for both teams.
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Coaching Changes: Auburn will be without head coach Bruce Pearl, who announced his sudden retirement in September 2025. Assistant coach Steve Pearl, Bruce's son, will serve as the interim head coach. (azdesertswarm.com)
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Home-Court Advantage: Arizona has a perfect 4-0 record at home this season, which could provide them with a significant edge in this matchup. (espn.com)
Players to Watch
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Motiejus Krivas (Arizona): The center has been a dominant force, leading the team with 20 points in the recent win over Norfolk State. (foxsports.com)
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Kevin Overton (Auburn): Overton's 29-point performance against NC State highlights his scoring ability and potential impact on the game. (dunkelindex.com)
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Johni Broome (Auburn): Despite the loss to Duke, Broome's consistent scoring and rebounding make him a key player to watch. (reuters.com)
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Tahaad Pettiford (Auburn): Pettiford's 20-point outing against Duke demonstrates his capability to lead the offense. (reuters.com)
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Steve Pearl (Auburn Interim Head Coach): As the interim head coach following his father's retirement, Steve Pearl's leadership will be under scrutiny in this high-profile game. (azdesertswarm.com)
Key Matchups & Storylines
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Offensive Efficiency vs. Defensive Pressure: Arizona's high-scoring offense will face a test against Auburn's defense, which has shown vulnerability in recent games. The Wildcats' ability to execute their offense will be crucial.
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Rebounding Dominance: Auburn's superior rebounding could give them extra possessions, but Arizona's defense will aim to limit second-chance opportunities.
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Coaching Dynamics: With Bruce Pearl's sudden retirement, Steve Pearl's first major test as interim head coach will be under the national spotlight.
Fun Facts
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All-Time Series: Auburn leads the all-time series 2-0, with both victories coming at neutral sites. (auburntigers.com)
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High-Scoring Teams: Both teams are among the highest-scoring in the nation, averaging over 87 points per game.
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Coaching Legacy: Bruce Pearl's sudden retirement in September 2025 has added an unexpected twist to this matchup. (azdesertswarm.com)
Things to Chirp About
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"Can Arizona's offense continue its high-scoring ways against Auburn's defense?"
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"With Bruce Pearl retiring, how will Auburn adjust under Steve Pearl's leadership?"
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"Will Auburn's rebounding edge be enough to overcome Arizona's home-court advantage?"
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"Is Motiejus Krivas the key to Arizona's success in this matchup?"
Prediction
While both teams have potent offenses and key players capable of turning the game, Arizona's home-court advantage and consistent performance this season give them a slight edge. However, Auburn's resilience and rebounding prowess could keep the game competitive. Expect a closely contested matchup with Arizona potentially pulling away in the second half.