Auburn is heading back to the Final Four for the first time since 2019, and this time they’ll be looking for a better result. They secured their spot by knocking off Michigan State in the Elite Eight on Sunday with a score of 70-64.
Auburn Fights Back Critics
Many in the media and around college basketball were noting that the Tiger team didn’t seem to be playing its best basketball towards the end of the season. Despite an early exit in the semifinals of the SEC tournament, this team isn’t listening to the critics.
They’re heading back to the Final Four for the first time since 2019, proving the doubters wrong and showing they’re a force to be reckoned with in the tournament.
Auburn is one of the favorites to win the national championship next weekend, and fans are hopeful that Johni Broome remains healthy. He left the Michigan State game late with what appeared to be a hyperextended elbow from reports, but returned to finish strong.
Broome had an impressive night, going 10 of 13 from the field and scoring 25 points. He’s a key player for the Tigers and will be a significant asset in their rematch with Florida next weekend.
Tigers/Gators Part 2
Next weekend in San Antonio is going to be a treat for college basketball fans, as all No. 1 seeds will be in Texas. Both matchups are set to be exciting and fun to watch, especially the all-SEC rematch between Florida and Auburn.
Fans can expect high energy and intense competition as these teams face off again on such a big stage.
For the first time since 2008 every number 1 seed is in the Final Four 👏
— FanDuel (@FanDuel) March 30, 2025
(1) Duke vs. (1) Houston
(1) Florida vs. (1) Auburn #CBB | #MarchMadness pic.twitter.com/kqc00iwqKs
In their first meeting, the Gators won with impressive shooting, led by Walter Clayton Jr., and a backcourt that ranks among the best in the country. This rematch is set to be a thrilling game to watch, as both teams represent the SEC as No. 1 seeds. Fans can expect an electrifying showdown as they monitor this exciting matchup.
It all comes down to Johni Broome for Auburn. With him leading the way and making the necessary plays, he has the potential to help propel the team toward winning a national championship. His performance will be crucial as they aim for success on this big stage.
Tom Izzo, What A Ride
This was a fun season in East Lansing, and Michigan State accomplished some incredible things throughout the year. Today highlighted the struggles with shooting that plagued them for much of the season.
On a day when they needed to hit their shots, they went cold, allowing Auburn to jump out to an early lead of 23-8. The Spartans found themselves in a hole they simply couldn’t climb out of.
The Spartans managed to get the deficit under 10 points a few times, but they were never able to apply significant pressure on Auburn down the stretch. As the season comes to an end, it’s important to recognize the incredible coaching job done by Tom Izzo.
The team achieved a lot this year, and their accomplishments should not be overlooked despite the final outcome.
End Of My Auburn Rant

The Auburn/Florida matchup next weekend should be a blast, providing a chance to watch two top SEC teams battle it out for a shot at the national championship. With at least one of them guaranteed to represent the SEC in the finals, it’s an exciting time for the conference, especially with four SEC teams making it to the Elite Eight this year.
The level of competition has been elite.
The hope for an all-SEC Final Four was dashed when Duke knocked off Alabama and Houston defeated Tennessee. Next weekend is still shaping up to be one of the best Final Fours we’ve seen in a while, given the rankings and seeding.
San Antonio, here we come!
For more SEC basketball coverage, Click here. SEC Basketball on Remarkable Run – Stadium Rant
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