Pettiford scores 18 to lead Auburn to 92-59 win against SE Louisiana in a season opener

Auburn’s Tahaad Pettiford delivered a strong first-half performance, scoring 13 points out of his 18 total to lead the Tigers to a commanding 92-59 victory over Southeastern Louisiana in their season opener. The sophomore freshman’s scoring prowess was evident as he hit 6 of 19 shots from the floor. Kevin Overton contributed 12 points on four 3-pointers for Auburn, while Narcisse Ngoy and George Kimble III each added 10 points.

Pettiford surpassed 1,000 points last season with the Tigers. Auburn's defense was notable, as they outrebounded SE Louisiana 50-37 and shot 51% overall (32 of 63). Quincy Allen contributed 16 points and four 3-pointers for the Lions, with Yanis Ndjonga chipping in 13 points. Auburn coach Steven Pearl, who led the Tigers to a 22-16 record and an NIT Championship last season, continued their impressive season.

This marks Auburn's fifth-straight 20-win season, and they boast a nation-leading 68-game home winning streak. The next game for Auburn is a home matchup against Appalachian State on Monday.