Kyle Guy, the 2019 NBA champion who infamously held off Auburn’s hopes with a clutch free throw, has grown fond of the Cavaliers’ success since leaving his mark on college basketball. As the Tigers look to make history by becoming only their second Final Four team, Guy’s past and present are intertwined.
In 2019, Guy’s Virginia Cavaliers faced off against Auburn in the national semifinals. A disputed call ultimately gave the Cavaliers an advantage, with Guy making three crucial free throws, including one that sealed the win over Auburn. The moment was a defining point for Guy, who has credited it as shaping him into the person he is today.
As a result of his experience on the court against Auburn, Guy now finds himself in the unfamiliar role of cheering for his old team, Virginia, rather than Auburn’s rivals. He even expressed support for their new coach, Ryan Odom, saying “The world is smaller than we think” and stating that he thinks it’s a good hire.
Guy plans to watch Saturday’s game from a TV, not taking on the role of a villainous figure who once broke hearts in College Station. Instead, he will be rooting for Virginia, who are competing against Duke in the semifinals.
Source: https://www.ncaa.com/news/basketball-men/article/2025-04-01/auburn-looks-avenge-2019-heartbreaker-and-turn-their-sights-florida