The USF Bulls (6-4) head up to the Loveliest Village on the Plains as the take on the Auburn Tigers (4-1) in a Big 6 conference clash. Game is scheduled for 9:30 PM and will be aired regionally on the YES Network along with being streamed on ESPN3.com. Jim Lighthall and Todd Kalas will have the call for you on the radio at 620 WDAE.
Auburn is led by the trio of guard Varez Ward (11.4 PTS/4.2 REB/5.2 AST) and Frankie Sullivan (14.2 PTS/5.0 REB/2.6 AST/1.8 STL) along with forward Kenny Gabriel (11.4 PTS/7.2 REB/2.6 BLK/1.4 STL). Ward is a transfer from Texas who has done a good job running Coach Tony Barbee's dribble drive offense. He is an excellent 3-point shooter (45% 3P%) and will be a challenge for Anthony Collins on both ends of the floor. Sullivan lives off kickoff passes from Ward and the Auburn posts, shooting over 7 three-pointers a game. He doesn't hit them as well as Ward (33% 3P%), but if he's given the opportunity he will take the shot.
Gabriel is one of the best posts USF will face in their non-conference schedule and will give Ron Anderson Jr. and Toarlyn Fitzpatrick fits all night on both ends of the court. He's an excellent shot blocker and alters twice as many shots as he rejects. The Bulls will have to do an excellent job blocking Gabriel out as he is known for some eye opening put back dunks off of the offensive glass.
USF should have everyone healthy after Victor Rudd and Anderson Jr.'s minutes were limited against Florida A&M from strep throat. Jr. SG Jawanza Poland will be forced to sit tonight's game by the NCAA due to playing in unsanctioned summer league games. He will be eligible for Monday's game against Cleveland State.