Auburn's Pearl Warns of Dangerous Texas Team Ahead

Head coach says Texas is the 'most dangerous team' in the SEC after recent wins over ranked opponents.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 3:47pm

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Auburn head coach Steven Pearl is warning his team not to get complacent after their recent win over Florida, as they now prepare to host a dangerous Texas team on Wednesday. Pearl praised Texas' talented roster and recent victories over ranked opponents, saying they are the 'most dangerous team' in the SEC. The Tigers will need to focus on rebounding the ball well against the Longhorns, who excel at offensive and defensive rebounding.

Why it matters

This SEC matchup between Auburn and Texas features two teams trending in opposite directions. Auburn has won three straight games, while Texas has several impressive wins over ranked opponents this season. The outcome of this game could have major implications for both teams' NCAA Tournament hopes.

The details

Auburn is coming off an 87-82 win over Texas last January, in which they enjoyed a +7 rebounding margin. However, new Texas coach Sean Miller has sparked dramatic improvement in the Longhorns' rebounding this season, with the team ranking in the nation's top 10th percentile in both offensive and defensive rebounding. Pearl emphasized the importance of the Tigers matching Texas' intensity on the boards in order to come away with another victory.

  • Auburn defeated Texas 87-82 in Austin last January.
  • The two teams will face off again on Wednesday, January 27, 2026.

The players

Steven Pearl

The head coach of the Auburn Tigers men's basketball team.

Sean Miller

The new head coach of the Texas Longhorns men's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“While I said Florida was the best team in our league, this is the most dangerous team in our league — and it's not even close. They have a bunch of guys who understand what they're supposed to be doing out there in their roles.”

— Steven Pearl, Head Coach

“We've got to have the same intention we had against Florida as far as rebounding the basketball. They do a great job of going to get it.”

— Steven Pearl, Head Coach

What’s next

The outcome of Wednesday's game between Auburn and Texas could have major implications for both teams' NCAA Tournament hopes.

The takeaway

This SEC matchup features two teams heading in opposite directions, with Auburn looking to build on their recent success and Texas aiming to prove they are the 'most dangerous team' in the conference. The battle on the boards will be crucial, as both teams look to gain an edge through their rebounding prowess.