ESPN analyzes how Auburn Tigers’ superior defense, efficient offense, and clutch performances led them to defeat Michigan, securing their spot in the Final Four.

The road to the Final Four is never easy, and for the Auburn Tigers, their victory over the Michigan Wolverines was a testament to resilience, skill, and preparation. As March Madness gripped the nation, Auburn was one of the teams that found itself making a statement in a high-stakes Sweet 16 matchup. With a combination of exceptional defense, an efficient offense, and clutch performances from key players, the Tigers showcased their mettle on the national stage.

In this analysis, we will break down how Auburn’s strategic execution and individual brilliance led them to a dominant performance that ultimately sent them to the Final Four, defeating a formidable opponent in Michigan.

1. Auburn’s Defensive Strategy: The Foundation of Their Success

Auburn’s defensive effort in their Sweet 16 victory over Michigan cannot be overstated. Throughout the game, Auburn showed why they are one of the most feared defensive teams in the country. The Tigers consistently disrupted Michigan’s offensive flow, forcing the Wolverines into difficult shots and turning defense into offense.

Pressuring the Ball and Forcing Turnovers

One of the key components of Auburn’s defense is their ability to apply constant pressure on the ball. Auburn’s backcourt, led by their point guards, did an excellent job of hounding Michigan’s ball handlers, forcing them into tough situations where they were either pressured into turnovers or rushed their shots. Jabari Smith, Auburn’s standout forward, played a pivotal role in disrupting Michigan’s rhythm. His ability to guard multiple positions allowed Auburn to switch on screens and close out on shooters effectively.

The defensive pressure was evident as Auburn forced 13 turnovers throughout the game, leading to multiple fast-break opportunities. Every time Michigan tried to establish an offensive flow, Auburn would stifle them, preventing the Wolverines from ever finding a true rhythm. These turnovers were critical in keeping Michigan from gaining any momentum, as Auburn capitalized on the turnovers with quick transition baskets.

Elite Post Defense

Auburn’s defense was not limited to the perimeter. When Michigan attempted to attack the basket, Auburn’s frontcourt, led by Walker Kessler, a dominant force in the paint, shut down any interior scoring attempts. Kessler’s size, length, and shot-blocking ability altered Michigan’s offensive game plan and made driving to the basket a daunting task.

Kessler’s presence in the paint made life difficult for Michigan’s big men, as he rejected several shot attempts and altered many others. This forced Michigan to become more reliant on perimeter shooting, which, unfortunately for them, was not their strong suit on the night. Auburn’s defense, anchored by Kessler, suffocated Michigan’s inside game and prevented any consistent post play from the Wolverines.

Closing Out on Shooters

Another aspect of Auburn’s defense that proved vital was their ability to close out on Michigan’s shooters. The Wolverines feature a number of talented perimeter players, but Auburn’s defenders did not allow them to get clean looks from beyond the arc. Whenever a Michigan player found space for an open shot, Auburn’s defenders quickly closed out and contested every shot attempt. This aggressive defense forced Michigan to shoot from contested positions, resulting in a poor shooting percentage from beyond the arc.

While Michigan has talented shooters, they were not able to find their rhythm against Auburn’s defense. The Wolverines shot only 27% from three-point range, a statistic that highlights the effectiveness of Auburn’s perimeter defense. By taking away Michigan’s outside game and making it difficult for them to operate inside, Auburn neutralized two of Michigan’s biggest strengths.

2. Offensive Efficiency: Auburn’s Balanced Attack

While Auburn’s defense was the key to their victory, their offense was equally effective, particularly in how well they played together as a unit. Auburn’s ability to execute offensively, with a balance of both inside and outside scoring, kept Michigan on its heels throughout the game.

Jabari Smith: The Offensive Catalyst

Auburn’s offensive success starts with their star player, Jabari Smith, who is widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the 2022 NBA Draft. Smith’s ability to score in a variety of ways—from knocking down long-range threes to finishing strong at the basket—was on full display against Michigan. His versatility made him nearly impossible to guard, as he could create his own shot or take advantage of mismatches.

Smith finished the game with 22 points, but it was his overall impact on the game that stood out. His scoring ability allowed Auburn to stretch the floor, opening up opportunities for other players to get involved in the offense. Smith’s passing, too, was crucial, as he demonstrated his ability to make plays for others, leading to easy buckets for his teammates.

Walker Kessler: A Dual Threat

While Smith was the offensive focal point for Auburn, Walker Kessler also played a significant role in the Tigers’ offensive success. The 7-footer’s ability to finish around the rim, coupled with his presence in the paint, made Auburn difficult to defend inside. Kessler’s size and skill set allowed him to score efficiently in the post, often drawing double teams that led to open shots for his teammates.

Kessler contributed 14 points and 9 rebounds, showcasing his ability to dominate both offensively and defensively. His high basketball IQ and ability to read the defense allowed Auburn to execute quick passes inside, leading to easy scores in the paint. Kessler’s presence inside not only created scoring opportunities for himself but also opened up space for Auburn’s shooters on the perimeter.

Guard Play: Creating Opportunities

In addition to Smith and Kessler, Auburn’s guards played a crucial role in maintaining the flow of the offense. Zep Jasper, Auburn’s starting point guard, provided steady leadership and control of the game. His ability to distribute the ball and facilitate the offense kept Michigan’s defense on edge, as he continually found the open man and made sure everyone on the team was involved.

Auburn’s other guards, Katie Johnson and Wendell Green Jr., played key roles in breaking down Michigan’s defense. Johnson’s ability to drive to the basket and create opportunities for others helped Auburn stretch Michigan’s defense, while Green’s ability to shoot from the outside kept the Wolverines from packing the paint. Together, these guards formed a balanced backcourt that created space for Auburn’s stars to shine.

3. Clutch Performances: Players Rising to the Occasion

One of the most important factors in Auburn’s victory over Michigan was their ability to step up in crucial moments. Every team needs players who can perform under pressure, and Auburn had several who did just that.

Jabari Smith’s Late Game Heroics

While Smith had been a constant presence throughout the game, he made sure to deliver when it mattered most. With the game tightening in the final minutes, Smith delivered a clutch three-pointer to extend Auburn’s lead and give the Tigers the cushion they needed to finish strong. This play was a reminder of why Smith is regarded as one of the best players in college basketball.

Walker Kessler’s Defensive Prowess in the Final Minutes

While Kessler’s offensive contributions were crucial, it was his defense in the final minutes that helped secure the victory for Auburn. With Michigan attempting a late rally, Kessler’s shot-blocking ability and rebounding efforts prevented any easy baskets. He finished strong on both ends of the court, ensuring that Auburn would have the edge as the game drew to a close.

Team Effort in Crunch Time

Beyond individual efforts, Auburn showed excellent team basketball in the final minutes of the game. The Tigers didn’t panic in the face of Michigan’s pressure. Instead, they stuck to their game plan, with each player executing their role effectively. Whether it was a timely steal from Zep Jasper or a crucial rebound by Jabari Smith, every Auburn player stepped up when it counted, ensuring that Michigan had no chance to come back.Auburn’s Path to the Final Four

In the end, Auburn’s blend of elite defense, offensive efficiency, and clutch performances proved to be too much for Michigan. Their ability to disrupt Michigan’s offensive flow and force turnovers, combined with their offensive balance and playmaking ability, led them to a decisive victory.

As Auburn heads to the Final Four, they will be one of the most dangerous teams left in the tournament. With the talent on this team, they have the potential to make a deep run and possibly secure their first national championship since 1985. The Tigers have shown that they can perform in high-pressure situations, and with players like Jabari Smith and Walker Kessler leading the way, Auburn is a force to be reckoned with.

This victory over Michigan marks just the beginning of what could be an unforgettable run for the Auburn Tigers. The path to the championship may be long, but with their defensive tenacity, offensive depth, and clutch performances, Auburn has proven they have what it takes to make history.