For Auburn basketball, it is the end of an era and perhaps the greatest run in school history. Legendary players such as Charles Barkley and Chuck Person helped laid the foundation, but a special group of seniors helped create the gold standard for the program's success moving forward.
Danjel Purifoy. J'Von McCormick. Samir Doughty. Will Macoy. Anfernee McLemore. Austin Wiley. Thomas Collier. This group of Auburn Tigers is responsible for 99 wins in four years, an SEC regular-season title, an SEC Tournament title and a Final Four berth in the 2019 NCAA Tournament under head coach Bruce Pearl.
The coronavirus outbreak and COVID-19 virus strain ended what could have been another magical March Madness run, and their careers were unfortunately cut short. However, the memories will still live on forever.
Auburn Basketball Senior Tribute Video
What a career it’s been for this group of seniors. 👏#WarEagle pic.twitter.com/5GlPU7Rixk
— Auburn Basketball (@AuburnMBB) March 16, 2020
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Those close to the program have endless stories. Fans do, too. Anyone else watching from afar knows how good the Tigers have been, especially for the past two seasons, and it's tough to realize the ride is officially over.
Auburn isn't the only college basketball program sending a big senior class off abruptly, but it's important to take a look back and realize the Tigers are now on the national map thanks to five scholarship players and two walk-ons.
"There isn't a ring or a banner or anything that can take the place of admiration and true respect that you have brought to Auburn's athletic program and the men's basketball program."
— Auburn Coach Bruce Pearl
These seven seniors might not suit up for Auburn ever again, but they won't be forgotten for what they were able to accomplish on The Plains.
"War Eagle, man," Doughty said at the end of the video. "Love everybody apart of this program. Been a fun ride, bruh. But we're gonna keep it goin' next year. No cap."
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