Bruce Pearl reveals Auburn's mentality late in the season

Ever since gaining the No. 1 spot in the AP poll, it’s been a grind for Bruce Pearl and the Auburn Tigers. An emotional home game against in-state rival Alabama proved to be tough, while road matchups against Missouri and Georgia have been close.

The Tigers left Athens on Saturday night, escaping from a potentially disastrous loss to Tom Crean’s squad. Guard Wendell Green had to hit a last-second shot to get the win, extending the win streak to 19 for Auburn.

During an appearance on an ESPN halftime show on Monday, Pearl revealed what his message was to his team after the close win. He said everybody will give a tough matchup for Auburn going forward.

“It’s a long season and it’s a grind,” Pearl said. “We’re going to get everybody’s best shot and on any give Sunday, anybody can beat you.”

From there, Pearl explained what the mentality of his team will be as March becomes closer. He admitted his team might be tired to a certain extent but college basketball is all about getting wins and moving onto the next challenge.

“Our guys have done a great job preparing and getting ready,” said Peral. “You know, are we a little tired as we’re getting into the month of February with all of the games and all of the preparations? Maybe. But it is called survive and advance for a reason.”

Bruce Pearl gives update on star guard

Zep Jasper started each of Auburn’s first 22 games this season at point guard. But on Saturday, Jasper was not on the court due to a non-COVID-related illness.

Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl said, via AL.com’s Tom Green, that Jasper is questionable for Tuesday’s game on the road against Arkansas.

“Zep was feeling better, and if can go, he’ll go,” Pearl said, via Green.

Auburn didn’t have much time prior to Saturday’s game to prepare for Jasper’s absence. In his place, Preston Cook and Wendell Green Jr. saw more time. Pearl thought that Cook played well given the circumstances.

“We didn’t have very much lead time,” Pearl said, via Green. “I thought Preston did a really good job and was prepared.”

Cook only played four minutes, but they came early on. He recorded one assist. Green started in place of Jasper, and he played a huge role against Georgia on Saturday. Green played 36 minutes, scoring 19 points including the game-winner just before the final buzzer.