Auburn Tigers Basketball Preview: Things to Do in Auburn

It's hard to believe it's time for basketball! As the football season winds down, don't forget that there are still plenty more sporting events that need your attendance here in Auburn. 

Games have already begun for the men's and women's teams, so let's take a look at the season to help you get ready for hoops! We'll also help you find one of the best places to stay in Auburn while you're in town for a game.

What Happened Last Year?

For the men, a good season ended with a one-year self-imposed postseason ban. This was due to Chuck Person (the team's former assistant coach) and his involvement in the 2017–18 NCAA Division I men's basketball corruption scandal. 

The women's basketball team,  led by first-year head coach Johnnie Harris, did not fare as well as the men last season. They landed in last place for the conference and failed to make it out of the first round of the SEC tournament. 

Changes for 2022

The Auburn men start the season ranked #15 for the AP Top 25 and are excited about a new season. However, the Tigers will need to quickly prove their mettle with an answer for the holes left by Walker Kessler and Jabari Smith — two star players that left the team for the NBA after last season. 

The team has high hopes for their newest additions, Yohan Traore and Johni Broome, to help fill the void and keep the team's momentum moving forward. 

Auburn's women's basketball team only has room to improve this season. Starting near the bottom of the conference, Coach Harris's second year provides an opportunity for a new approach. She has confidence in her team and has already gained the trust of Auburn fans that are ready to see the team do more this season. 

Players to Watch

We mentioned Traore and Broome as two promising new players for the men's basketball team. Johni Broome is a transfer from Morehead State. He was the OVC (Ohio Valley Conference) Player of the Year last year with the ability to put points on the board at the forward position. 

Yohan Traore, originally from France, is a five-star recruit. During summer play, he averaged 16 points per game. He brings a coachable attitude to the team with the ability to score plenty of points as a forward. 

On the women's side, Aicha Coulibaly was recently named Pre-Season All-SEC. Now a junior, during her sophomore season last year, she averaged 17.1 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, including five double-doubles.

When to Tune In

The season has just begun! 

The men tipped off the 2022-2023 season on November 3, 2022, against the UAH Chargers. Check the upcoming schedule to catch all of the action. 

The ladies begin the season on November 4, 2022, against Miles College. Catch home games at Neville Arena, or follow the schedule for every game this season! 

Stay At the Best Auburn Vacation Rentals for In-Town Games

When in town for one of the big games or other things to do in Auburn, you deserve a "home away from home" to relax before and after a win! Choose one of the family-friendly Auburn vacation rentals from LlamaStay.