Jeremiah Wilkinson exploded for a season-high 31 points — including two clutch threes in overtime — as No. 23 Georgia edged out Auburn 104-100 in a heart-stopping Southeastern Conference opener that ended a five-game losing streak to the Tigers.
The game was defined by its dramatic finish. With Georgia trailing 98-95 in overtime, Wilkinson scored seven straight points — culminating in a pair of critical threes — to seize control. He capped it off with a dagger jumper at the buzzer to put Georgia ahead 102-98 with just one minute left. Dylan James sealed the win with a steal and two free throws with 5.3 seconds remaining — his only points of the night.
Auburn’s comeback began in regulation. Trailing 92-88 after Somto Cyril’s dunk, Keyshawn Hall was fouled on a 3-point attempt with 0.7 seconds left. He made the first two free throws but intentionally missed the third — a decision that gave Kevin Overton the chance to grab the rebound and score, forcing overtime.
Wilkinson’s performance was historic — he shot 9-of-21 from the floor and 4-of-10 from beyond the arc, scoring 18 points before halftime. His 31 points were not just a personal milestone; they helped Georgia post its school-record seventh 100-point game. Marcus Millender added a career-high 24 points, hitting five 3-pointers, while Cyril contributed 15 points, six rebounds, and five blocks.
Georgia’s offense was relentless early. Wilkinson hit a jumper at the buzzer to give Georgia a 47-45 lead at halftime, and Auburn went cold — failing to make a field goal for the final 3:59 of the first half. But Auburn clawed back in the second half, taking a 74-73 lead with 5:37 remaining on a 3-pointer by Freeman and a bucket by Overton. Georgia responded with a 6-0 run — led by Millender’s three — to regain control until the final seconds.
This win ends Georgia’s five-game skid against Auburn — a streak that had haunted them since 2023. It also marks the beginning of Georgia’s SEC season — now 1-0 — while Auburn falls to 0-1. The victory sets the stage for what could be a pivotal season for both programs.
The Bulldogs’ depth was evident — Blue Cain added 15 points, and Tahaad Pettiford scored 15 of his 25 points in the first half before fouling out. For Auburn, Hall finished with 20 points and seven rebounds, while Overton tallied 19 points and seven boards. Filip Jovic posted his first double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds before fouling out.
What makes this game so special? It wasn’t just the score — it was the drama, the grit, and the resilience. In a league where every point matters, Georgia showed why they’re ranked No. 23 — they don’t quit. They fight when it matters most.
For fans, this game is more than a win — it’s a statement. Georgia proved they can handle pressure, overcome adversity, and execute under the brightest lights. And for Auburn? They’ll need to regroup quickly — because next time, they won’t have the luxury of an improbable last-second rally.
As the Bulldogs look ahead to their next matchup, one thing is clear: this team has the talent, the heart, and the will to compete at the highest level. They’ve shown they can win close games — and they’re ready to keep building.
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