REACTION: Auburn Basketball BLASTS Illinois State, Heading to NIT Championship

The Locked On Auburn podcast celebrates the Auburn Tigers' 88-66 victory over Illinois State, securing their spot in the NIT Championship game. Hosts Zach Blackerby and Daryl Dapridge highlight a dominant, balanced performance from Auburn, led by Keyshawn Hall’s 24 points and Kevin Overton’s perfect 5-for-5 from three-point range. The team’s 1.45 points per possession efficiency and exceptional shooting—especially from beyond the arc—were key to their commanding win. Despite playing without a starter and their best big man, the Tigers showed resilience and cohesion, with the hosts emphasizing the team’s growth and chemistry built through the NIT run. They reflect on how the tournament has reignited fan interest, with a live chat drawing over 700 engaged fans—comparable to an SEC game—proving the passion remains strong. The hosts also discuss the upcoming championship matchup against Tulsa, acknowledging Auburn’s defensive vulnerabilities to three-point shooting but expressing confidence in their athleticism and rebounding. They frame the NIT run as a crucial springboard for future success, transforming what was seen as a disappointing season into a momentum-building triumph. Key takeaways include: Auburn’s NIT run has built team chemistry and retention potential, especially with players like Overton and Hall showing leadership; the team’s offensive efficiency and shooting prowess were at their peak in this game; fan engagement remains high, proving the program still has strong support; the NIT championship game offers a high-stakes opportunity to end the season on a high note; and the experience gained by head coach Bruce Pearl in postseason management and lineup adjustments will benefit the program long-term. The episode closes with a nostalgic, humorous digression about past recruiting jokes, underscoring the community-driven spirit of the podcast.