Bruce Pearl has humorous reaction to students who traveled to game vs Mississippi State

On Wednesday, Auburn accomplished a gigantic feat — clinching at least a share of the SEC title in overtime against Mississippi State. The Tigers brought a nice contingent of Auburn faithful to Starkville for the showdown, and Tigers coach Bruce Pearl had a humorous reaction to the students who traveled to see the game.

“Tell them they’re champions,” stated Pearl, via Tom Green of AL.com. “And tell them to get their ass in class tomorrow.”

While Pearl is happy the loyal Auburn faithful made their way to see them defeat Mississippi State, it’s evident he’s a stickler for attendance. One has to wonder how many students will be in class on Thursday that were in Starkville on Wednesday.

Nevertheless, the Tigers gave the contingent a show. Now, the focus becomes adding some more trophies to their memorable season. Still, Pearl wants all students in class on time regardless.

Pearl on SEC title: ‘It means so much to us.’

Moreover, it’s the second SEC title under head coach Bruce Pearl. The Auburn coach spoke on how much it means to him, his players and the Auburn fanbase after the win.

“It means so much to us, because this league is so good,” Pearl said. “And, you know, there are about seven or eight teams that could have won this thing, and the fact that Auburn put itself in this position is just incredible.”

Freshman sensation Jabari Smith had another stellar night with 27 points and 10 rebounds on 9-13 shooting and was complemented by KD Johnson and Zep Jasper‘s combined 25. Pearl couldn’t say enough about the future NBA lottery pick.

“[Smith] is one of the greatest competitors I’ve ever coached,” Pearl said. “Now, you could look at his jump shot and you can look at all the other things about him. But that is one competitive talent. He doesn’t want to lose anything and he wants the ball. He’s not afraid of the moment, and I’m gonna just trust him.”

Smith nailed a mid-range jumper to tie the game at 61 in regulation, but missed the potential buzzer-beating 3-point attempt to end regulation — but as they say in March, you survive and advance, overtime or not. Now Smith can say he is an SEC Champion.

“I’m so happy for those kids. I’ve got some championships. I’ve got a few rings in a box, alright, but this is the championship for these kids,” Pearl said. “It is a championship for Auburn University, War Eagle.”