Smith leads Auburn to 10th straight NCAA opening win, 80-61

Published March 18, 2022 2:15 PM

By PETE IACOBELLI
AP Sports Writer

GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) — Freshman Jabari Smith 20 points and 14 rebounds as second-seeded Auburn pulled away from Jacksonville State late in the first half to win its 10th straight NCAA Tournament opener 80-61 in the Midwest Region. Walker Kessler finished a block shy of a triple-double with 13 points, 10 rebounds and nine blocks. K.D. Johnson scored 10 points during a 17-3 that put the Tigers in control in the first half. Jacksonville State cut a 24-point deficit in half at 67-55 with less than seven minutes left but got no closer. Jalen Gibbs hit four 3s and led the Gamecocks with 20 points. Auburn will play Miami in the second round.

Article Topic Follows: AP National Sports

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