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Tennessee's Comeback Stuns Auburn, NCAA Hopes in Jeopardy

3/13/2026

27 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Tennessee Volunteers beat the Auburn Tigers 72-62 in the SEC Tournament, potentially ending Auburn's NCAA Tournament hopes.
Auburn led by 10 points with 10:26 left before Tennessee's 20-0 run changed the game.
Nate Ament, returning from injury, scored 27 points to spark Tennessee's comeback.
Auburn's NCAA Tournament chances hinge on Selection Sunday as they sit 17-16 after nine losses in 12 games.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA Tournament expanded to 64 teams in 1985, enhancing competition and media coverage, with over 7 million viewers tuning in for North Carolina's championship win under coach Dean Smith. This shift marked a pivotal moment in college basketball, influencing team strategies and fan engagement, as seen in the current SEC Tournament, where Tennessee's victory over Auburn impacts NCAA hopes.

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Story summary

The Tennessee Volunteers beat the Auburn Tigers 72-62 in the SEC Tournament, potentially ending Auburn's NCAA Tournament hopes.
Auburn led by 10 points with 10:26 left before Tennessee's 20-0 run changed the game.
Nate Ament, returning from injury, scored 27 points to spark Tennessee's comeback.
Auburn's NCAA Tournament chances hinge on Selection Sunday as they sit 17-16 after nine losses in 12 games.

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