NASHVILLE, Tenn. — On Tuesday evening, Denver Jones contributed 21 points as the top-ranked Auburn Tigers secured an 80-68 victory over Vanderbilt, preventing the team from suffering its first losing streak of the season.
With this win, Auburn improved to 22-2 overall and 10-1 in conference play, setting the stage for a critical matchup against No. 2 Alabama on Saturday. This forthcoming game will not only determine the leader of the Southeastern Conference but also have significant implications for bragging rights within Alabama and ranking in the AP Top 25.
In addition to Jones’ standout performance, Auburn’s Chaney Johnson scored 20 points, while Johni Broome added 17 to the scoreboard.
Auburn started strong, racing out to a 15-point lead after bouncing back from their previous home loss to Florida. However, Vanderbilt found its rhythm and finally made its first three-point shot after nine attempts just before halftime, narrowing the gap to 34-32.
In the second half, Vanderbilt managed to take its first lead thanks to a three-pointer from Jason Edwards early on. The Commodores maintained momentum and briefly led 49-48 when Chris Manon scored on a putback. Nonetheless, Auburn quickly regained control with a decisive 12-2 run, effectively extinguishing Vanderbilt’s hopes of securing a significant victory.
Edwards finished the game for Vanderbilt with 13 points, while AJ Hoggard and Devin McGlockton chipped in 10 points apiece. McGlockton also excelled on the boards, grabbing a game-high 13 rebounds.
**Game Highlights**
Auburn showcased resilience, particularly in the second half, where the team committed just two turnovers, concluding the matchup with only eight total for the game.
**Up Next**
Auburn is gearing up for a pivotal clash with rival Alabama, while Vanderbilt will face No. 5 Tennessee in its next outing. Both games promise to be exciting as teams jockey for position within their respective conferences.
