Guard play wins in March, and that’s especially true for Auburn

March Madness is one of the most unpredictable events in all of sports, but if there’s one thing that remains constant, it’s that elite guard play wins in March. Teams that have strong, experienced, and dynamic guards tend to thrive in the NCAA Tournament, where tempo, ball security, and shot-making become the defining factors. For Auburn, a program that has increasingly made its mark on the national stage, guard play is not just a strength—it’s a necessity.

The Importance of Guard Play in March Madness

The NCAA Tournament is a guard’s game. While dominant big men can certainly be game-changers, the nature of the tournament favors teams that have skilled backcourt players who can control the pace, handle pressure, and create their own shots. Guard play is essential for several reasons:

1. Ball Control and Decision-Making – Turnovers can be deadly in a single-elimination tournament, and guards who protect the ball tend to lead their teams deep into March.
2. Shot Creation – When defenses tighten, having a guard who can create offense off the dribble is crucial.
3. Free-Throw Shooting – Late-game situations often come down to free throws, and strong guards tend to be the best at capitalizing on these opportunities.
4. Perimeter Defense – Elite guards not only dictate offense but can disrupt opponents with on-ball pressure.

For Auburn, these factors are not just talking points; they have been the program’s blueprint for success.

Auburn’s Emphasis on Guard Play

Under head coach Bruce Pearl, Auburn has developed a reputation for playing fast, aggressive basketball, relying heavily on dynamic guard play to fuel its offense and defensive pressure. Pearl’s system thrives on spacing, tempo, and perimeter shooting, making high-level guard play a critical component of Auburn’s success.

The 2019 Final Four Run: A Blueprint for Success

Auburn’s 2019 run to the Final Four was a perfect example of guard dominance in March. Led by Jared Harper and Bryce Brown, the Tigers tore through the competition with relentless shooting and playmaking.

• Jared Harper was the engine, orchestrating the offense with poise, pushing the pace, and making clutch shots.
• Bryce Brown was an elite shooter, capable of changing games with his three-point barrage.
• The duo’s ability to handle defensive pressure and make plays in crucial moments was the key to Auburn’s deep run, including a thrilling overtime win against Kentucky in the Elite Eight.

Auburn’s reliance on guard play in that tournament was a testament to how crucial strong backcourt players are in March. Their ability to control games, hit clutch shots, and create their own offense was the ultimate difference-maker.

Recent Auburn Guards Making an Impact

Auburn’s recent success continues to highlight the program’s reliance on elite guard play. In recent years, standout guards such as Sharife Cooper, K.D. Johnson, Wendell Green Jr., and Allen Flanigan have embodied the qualities necessary to thrive in March.

• Sharife Cooper (2020-21) – Despite playing just 12 games due to eligibility issues, Cooper’s ball-handling and passing ability showcased Auburn’s emphasis on skilled backcourt players.
• Wendell Green Jr. (2021-23) – A fearless playmaker, Green’s ability to penetrate and make big shots was instrumental in Auburn’s competitive SEC play.
• K.D. Johnson (2021-present) – A high-energy guard who thrives on defensive intensity and clutch scoring.
• Allen Flanigan (2020-23) – A versatile guard who can contribute in multiple ways, from scoring to defending.

These players have continued Auburn’s tradition of strong backcourt play, proving that guards remain the engine of success for the program.

Auburn’s 2024 Outlook: Can the Guards Lead Another Deep Run?

Looking at the 2024 Auburn roster, it’s clear that Bruce Pearl once again has a talented and dynamic group of guards capable of making noise in March. With a mix of experience, athleticism, and defensive tenacity, the Tigers’ backcourt is poised to be the driving force behind their postseason aspirations.

• Returning Veterans – Experienced guards bring leadership and composure to high-pressure situations, a critical factor in tournament play.
• Defensive Intensity – Auburn’s guards are known for aggressive on-ball defense, disrupting opposing backcourts and creating transition opportunities.
• Three-Point Shooting – Auburn’s ability to shoot from deep has always been a game-changer in March, and this year’s guards will look to continue that trend.

If Auburn can capitalize on these strengths, they will be a dangerous team once again when the tournament begins.

Guard Play Defines Auburn’s Success

There’s no doubt that guard play wins in March, and for Auburn, that principle is even more significant. The Tigers’ most successful seasons have been built on elite backcourt talent, and as they look ahead to future tournaments, their ability to develop and rely on high-level guards will determine their fate. Whether it’s pushing the tempo, knocking down clutch shots, or locking down opponents on defense, Auburn’s guards will continue to be the X-factor that dictates their success in the postseason.

As the madness of March approaches, one thing is certain: if Auburn wants to make another deep run, their guards will have to lead the way.