AUBURN, Ala. – After the slam dunk and shooting contests and before the country music concert, Auburn men’s basketball coach Bruce Pearl summarized the message Tipoff at Toomer’s sends to college basketball fans.
“Basketball matters in Auburn,” said Pearl Thursday while country artist Cole Swindell tuned up for his time on stage next to the court constructed overnight at the intersection of College and Magnolia. “It’s exciting for the players. This is a huge production. It’s got a brand. Tipoff at Toomer’s, people understand what it’s all about.
“Who puts a court down in the middle of downtown, brings in Cole Swindell, gets 10,000 people to show up on a beautiful fall night? Auburn, Alabama does it.”
Attended by nearly 10,000, the third edition of Tipoff at Toomer’s built by YellaWood was the most ambitious yet, including local live music, shopping and vendors.
Chaney Johnson won the dunk contest but freshman teammate Jahki Howard elicited the largest cheers with his high-flying antics, including leaping over Pearl and Aubie on his way above the rim.
Fresh off an NCAA Tournament appearance, women’s basketball coach Johnnie Harris appreciated the opportunity to introduce her team to Auburn fans.
“I thought it was amazing,” said Harris, in her fourth season on the Plains. “The team’s been working really hard. It’s really good to get out, see the fans. It’s time. Basketball season is here and our kids are excited, we’re excited. It was really good to see everybody here."