Auburn's Road Triumph: Duhon Shines Again
Auburn's Kaitlyn Duhon delivered another standout performance, propelling the Tigers to a 71-58 victory over Missouri, snapping a road drought in SEC play. Auburn's relentless defense forced Missouri into 30 turnovers, converting those into 29 crucial points, which helped offset the home team's impressive shooting night.
Head coach Larry Vickers praised his team's intensity and resilience. "Winning on the road in the SEC is no small feat," Vickers noted.
"We need to finish games better, but securing this win is something to celebrate. I'm proud of how we handle leads, and it's great to see this group succeed."
Duhon led the charge with 19 points, seven rebounds, and four steals, marking her second consecutive game as Auburn's top scorer. Khady Leye contributed 13 points, while Harissoum Coulibaly added 11. Mya Petticord chipped in with nine points, sinking three crucial 3-pointers.
Despite Missouri's sizzling 57.1 percent shooting from the field, their season-high turnovers limited their opportunities, allowing Auburn to take 34 more shots. The Tigers capitalized by hitting eight 3-pointers, their best in SEC play this season, while committing just 10 turnovers.
Auburn jumped to an 18-8 lead in the first quarter, fueled by 12 Missouri turnovers. Duhon's defensive prowess led to fast-break opportunities, including the game's opening basket. Ja’Mia Harris, Petticord, and Angena Belloso each nailed 3-pointers to extend the lead.
Auburn's largest lead came at 36-21 following a 6-0 run, highlighted by jumpers from Leye and Clara Koulibaly, along with Duhon's free throws. Despite Missouri's 67 percent shooting in the first half, Auburn maintained a 37-27 lead at the break by forcing 19 turnovers.
The second half saw Auburn's defensive intensity remain unyielding. Petticord's back-to-back 3-pointers pushed the lead to 48-30, and Auburn entered the fourth quarter with a 60-48 advantage.
Missouri briefly closed the gap to 10, but Auburn's defense held firm. A late Coulibaly layup sealed the victory, marking Auburn's first 70-point game in conference play this season.
Missouri's Grace Slaughter led her team with 19 points, while Jordana Reisma added 10, but it wasn't enough to overcome Auburn's defensive dominance.