Michigan’s Sweet Sixteen opponent, number one overall seed Auburn
As the March Madness tournament hits its peak, the stage is set for an intense Sweet Sixteen showdown between Michigan and the Auburn Tigers, the tournament’s No. 1 overall seed. This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter between two powerhouse programs with vastly different styles of play, but both capable of making deep runs toward a national championship. For Michigan, it’s a chance to prove they can hang with the very best, while Auburn is looking to solidify their status as the team to beat in this year’s field.
Let’s take a deep dive into Auburn’s strengths, weaknesses, and overall team makeup to understand what Michigan will be up against as they prepare to face the Tigers in this pivotal Sweet Sixteen matchup.
Auburn Tigers: A Dominant Force in 2025
Auburn enters the Sweet Sixteen as the No. 1 overall seed in the tournament, which is a testament to their dominance during the 2024-2025 season. Head coach Bruce Pearl has molded the Tigers into one of the most well-rounded teams in the nation. Their combination of size, athleticism, and defensive intensity has made them a nearly unbeatable force in the SEC and a clear favorite to make a deep run in March Madness.
Auburn finished the regular season with a 32-3 record, claiming the SEC title and securing their No. 1 ranking after a dominant campaign. The Tigers possess elite talent at virtually every position, with a roster full of high-flying athletes, lockdown defenders, and versatile offensive players. But what makes Auburn such a threat is the combination of their powerful defense and explosive offense, which allows them to dictate the pace of any game.
Key Players to Watch: Auburn’s Star Power
As the No. 1 overall seed, Auburn boasts a roster filled with top-tier talent. Here are some of the key players Michigan will need to focus on in this Sweet Sixteen matchup:
1. Jabari Smith – Forward (6’10”)
One of the most dynamic players in college basketball, Jabari Smith is the centerpiece of Auburn’s success. The SEC Player of the Year and potential NBA lottery pick has the ability to impact the game in virtually every area. His length and athleticism make him a matchup nightmare on both ends of the floor. Smith is capable of dominating in the post, but he can also stretch the floor with his three-point shooting, making him a difficult player to defend. His versatility allows him to exploit mismatches, whether it’s posting up smaller defenders or facing up against bigger, slower players.
Smith has averaged 17.8 points per game and 8.5 rebounds this season, earning him a reputation as one of the most well-rounded forwards in the country. Michigan’s defense will need to be ready to throw multiple defenders at him, but even that might not be enough. Smith is a player capable of taking over a game, so stopping him will be Michigan’s top priority.
2. Walker Kessler – Center (7’1″)
Auburn’s defensive anchor, Walker Kessler, has been an absolute force in the paint this season. The 7-foot-1 center is one of the best shot-blockers in the country, averaging 4.5 blocks per game, and is a constant presence in the post. Kessler’s size, combined with his elite timing and ability to read the ball, allows him to completely change the dynamic of Auburn’s defense. His rim protection makes it difficult for opposing teams to finish inside, forcing them to take tough shots or abandon the paint altogether.
Kessler is also an efficient scorer, averaging 11.3 points per game on high-percentage shooting. He is particularly effective in pick-and-roll situations, where he uses his size to either finish at the rim or create opportunities for teammates. Michigan will need to find ways to neutralize his impact inside and force Auburn to take shots from the perimeter.
3. Sharife Cooper – Guard (6’1″)
While Smith and Kessler get most of the headlines, Sharife Cooper is the engine that drives Auburn’s offense. The point guard has been outstanding all season, averaging 14.5 points, 6.3 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game. Cooper is known for his elite ball-handling and playmaking ability. He has the vision to create for others and can break down defenses with his ability to get to the basket. His quickness and agility make him a nightmare in transition, and he thrives in the open floor where he can either score or dish out assists.
Michigan will have to contend with Cooper’s quickness and ability to distribute the ball, but they can’t overlook his scoring threat either. While not an elite shooter from beyond the arc, Cooper is an excellent finisher at the rim, especially in transition. Michigan’s guards will have to stay disciplined in one-on-one situations, as Cooper can turn any slight misstep into a quick bucket or an assist.
Defensive Identity: Auburn’s Swarming Defense
What sets Auburn apart from many other teams in this year’s tournament is their ability to lock down opponents defensively. Under coach Bruce Pearl, the Tigers have developed one of the most suffocating defenses in the nation, holding opponents to an average of 62.1 points per game. Auburn excels at forcing turnovers, creating fast-break opportunities, and making life difficult for opposing offenses by consistently pressuring the ball.
Full-Court Press and Half-Court Defense
Auburn’s defensive scheme is predicated on full-court pressure and constant ball denial. They’ll often deploy a press defense, which Michigan will need to handle carefully. Auburn’s guards, including Cooper and Zep Jasper, are relentless in forcing turnovers and getting into passing lanes, while their big men, like Kessler and Jabari Smith, provide shot-blocking and rebounding support.
In the half-court, Auburn is particularly effective at denying entry passes and contesting shots. Their ability to rotate quickly and contest shooters has led to impressive defensive efficiency. Kessler’s rim protection gives the Tigers an added layer of defense, allowing their guards to be aggressive in their on-ball pressure, knowing that help is always around the corner.
Transition Defense: Dangerous in the Open Floor
Auburn is one of the best teams in the country when it comes to scoring in transition. Their defense often sparks fast breaks, where players like Cooper, K.D. Johnson, and Allen Flanigan can push the ball upcourt quickly and convert easy buckets. Michigan will need to limit these transition opportunities by taking care of the ball and getting back on defense after missed shots or turnovers. Allowing Auburn to get out in transition could spell trouble for Michigan’s chances.
Offensive Versatility: Auburn’s High-Tempo Attack
While Auburn is known for its defense, the Tigers’ offense is no slouch either. Bruce Pearl has built a fast-paced offense that thrives on ball movement, spacing, and the ability to attack the basket in a variety of ways. Auburn can score in the half-court, but it is at its best when pushing the tempo and getting easy buckets in transition.
Versatile Scoring Threats
Auburn’s offense is balanced, with several players capable of putting up big numbers on any given night. Jabari Smith is the team’s go-to scorer, but players like K.D. Johnson, Allen Flanigan, and Chris Moore can also contribute in a variety of ways. The Tigers’ offense operates efficiently both inside and out. With Kessler and Smith capable of dominating in the post, Auburn can also stretch the floor with shooters like Wendell Green Jr. and Jabari Smith, who can knock down three-pointers when given the opportunity.
Auburn’s ability to score in a variety of ways, combined with their fast tempo, means Michigan’s defense will be tested in multiple areas. The Wolverines will need to maintain discipline, forcing Auburn to play at their own pace and limiting open shots from beyond the arc.
Michigan’s Key to Success Against Auburn
For Michigan to pull off the upset and advance to the Elite Eight, they will need to play a nearly perfect game. Here are the keys to the Wolverines’ success:
- Contain Jabari Smith: Michigan will have to throw multiple defenders at Smith, forcing him to take tough shots and limit his effectiveness. Smith is capable of taking over a game, so limiting his scoring will be critical.
- Handle Auburn’s Pressure: Michigan’s guards must be composed against Auburn’s full-court press and ball pressure. Protecting the basketball will be paramount, as turnovers will lead to easy transition opportunities for the Tigers.
- Control the Glass: With Kessler and Smith dominating the paint, Michigan will need to rebound effectively and limit Auburn’s second-chance opportunities. Securing defensive rebounds will be critical in slowing down Auburn’s offense.
- Hit Outside Shots: Auburn’s defense is stingy in the paint, but if Michigan can knock down three-pointers and stretch the floor, it will open up driving lanes and force Auburn to adjust.
- Limit Transition Opportunities: Auburn thrives in transition, so Michigan must get back on defense quickly and not allow the Tigers to get easy buckets off turnovers or missed shots.
