HOUSTON — Tahaad Pettiford led the Auburn Tigers with 21 points, including five successful three-pointers, while Johni Broome contributed 20 points along with nine rebounds, guiding No. 11 Auburn to a narrow 74-69 victory over No. 4 Houston on Saturday evening.

Chaney Johnson had a double-double for Auburn (2-0), recording 11 points and 10 rebounds. The Tigers experienced some turbulence before the game when their flight was forced to land shortly after takeoff due to an onboard altercation involving two players.

In the second half, Broome scored 16 points, assisted by Pettiford’s 15, which were crucial in the final stretch of the game.

For Houston (1-1), L.J. Cryer and Emmanuel Sharp each netted 13 points, while J’Wan Roberts added 12 points and seven rebounds. Joseph Tugler and Milos Uzan both contributed 10 points.

The game featured a tense moment as Houston rallied to reclaim a 67-66 lead thanks to a three-pointer from Sharp with just over two minutes left. However, Chad Baker-Mazara quickly hit a jumper for Auburn, and following a turnover from Houston, he executed two free throws, establishing a three-point lead for the Tigers with only 49 seconds remaining.

Cryer attempted a jumper with 33 seconds left but missed, allowing Denver Jones to grab the rebound. Following a foul, Jones made both of his free throws, increasing Auburn’s lead to 72-67 with just 22 seconds on the clock.

**Takeaways**
Auburn showcased their strength this season with impressive size and perimeter shooting capabilities. Conversely, although Houston demonstrated a balanced scoring effort with five players reaching double figures, they will need better production from their bench, which contributed only 17 points.

**Key Moment**
With six minutes remaining and trailing 56-51, Auburn ignited their offense with back-to-back three-pointers from Pettiford and Baker-Mazara, which helped them take a 57-56 lead. The Tigers found momentum from that point on, managing to hit seven of their final eight field goals.

**Key Stat**
Auburn outperformed Houston in the paint, outscoring them 36-28 in that area.

**Upcoming Games**
Houston will play host to Louisiana on Wednesday night, while Auburn prepares to take on Kent State at home.