As Auburn University gears up for its second Final Four appearance in history, the memories of their heartbreaking 2019 loss to Virginia still linger.
Kyle Guy, the player who sealed Auburn’s fate with three clutch free throws, reflects on that pivotal moment and the journey that led him there.
This blog post delves into the emotional rollercoaster of Auburn’s 2019 near-victory, Kyle Guy’s perspective, and the Tigers’ hopes for redemption in the 2025 Final Four.
The Heartbreak of 2019: Auburn’s Painful Memory
In 2019, Auburn was on the brink of making history by advancing to the NCAA championship game.
With only 0.6 seconds left on the clock, the Tigers were leading Virginia 62-60. The celebration had already begun in the Auburn fan section.
However, a controversial foul call on Samir Doughty for bumping Kyle Guy changed the course of the game.
Guy, who had not shot a free throw the entire game, stepped up to the line with immense pressure and sank all three free throws, securing a 63-62 victory for Virginia.
Kyle Guy’s Perspective
Kyle Guy, who now works in the athletic department at the University of Virginia, recalls that moment as the most dramatic in his sports life.
“I literally tried to put the pressure on myself,” he said, describing how he managed to stay composed under the immense pressure.
Guy’s calm demeanor and focus helped him sink the crucial free throws that dashed Auburn’s dreams.
From Heartbreak to Triumph: Virginia’s Redemption
The 2019 victory was particularly sweet for Guy and his teammates as it came a year after Virginia made history for the wrong reasons.
In 2018, they became the first No. 1 seed to lose to a No. 16 seed, UMBC, in a shocking 20-point blowout.
“That’s probably the only game in my life that I cracked under pressure,” Guy admitted.
This loss served as a catalyst for Virginia’s redemption in 2019, culminating in their national championship win.
The Road to the Championship
Virginia’s path to the 2019 championship was anything but smooth.
They faced several close calls, including a narrow four-point win over Oregon, an overtime victory against Purdue, and the nail-biting finish against Auburn.
In the championship game, they needed another overtime to defeat Texas Tech.
Guy played a pivotal role throughout, averaging over 18 points in the final four games and missing only one of his 12 free throw attempts.
Auburn’s 2025 Final Four Hopes
Fast forward to 2025, and Auburn is once again in the Final Four. This time, they are determined to rewrite their story.
The team, led by head coach Bruce Pearl, has shown remarkable resilience and skill throughout the season.
Kyle Guy, now a spectator, acknowledges Auburn’s potential.
“I think they have a really freaking good team this year and Bruce Pearl is a hell of a coach,” he noted.
Kyle Guy’s Bracket Predictions
Interestingly, Guy has filled out a bracket for the 2025 tournament, predicting that Florida will win the championship by beating Auburn in the Final Four.
Despite his connection to the Tigers, Guy remains a Virginia man at heart.
“I just know I’m not rooting for Duke,” he quipped, showcasing his loyalty to his alma mater.
The Legacy of Kyle Guy
Kyle Guy’s three free throws in 2019 not only changed the outcome of a game but also shaped his legacy.
“A hundred percent. One, it was a chance for me to cultivate facing your fears and being able to step up in the big moments,” he reflected.
Guy’s performance under pressure has become a defining moment in his career, earning him a place in NCAA history.
Life After College Basketball
Since leaving college basketball, Guy has continued to make his mark in the sports world.
He has played professionally and now works in the athletic department at the University of Virginia.
He has also crossed paths with former Auburn players, maintaining a respectful camaraderie despite their shared history.
“I don’t think we’re best friends but we’re cool,” Guy said of his relationship with Jared Harper, who scored 11 points in the 2019 game.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Auburn
As Auburn prepares for their 2025 Final Four matchup, the ghosts of 2019 still linger. However, the team is focused on creating a new narrative.
With a strong roster and experienced coaching, the Tigers are poised to make a deep run in the tournament. Kyle Guy, who once broke Auburn hearts, will be watching from afar, hoping for an exciting and competitive game.
For more details on Auburn’s journey and their quest for redemption, you can read the full article on the NCAA website.
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