Auburn’s Simon Walker Shines with Perfect Shooting Debut

In a stellar debut for the Auburn Tigers, Simon Walker showcased his shooting prowess by making all five of his three-point attempts during a recent game against Jackson State. Walker, who had undergone foot surgery in September, came off the bench to score 15 points in just seven minutes of play, leading his team to a decisive victory.

Walker made his first appearance of the season on November 19, 2025, at Neville Arena in Auburn, Alabama. His performance not only marked a significant return to competitive basketball but also served as a personal milestone following his recovery. “It was definitely good to get that weight off my shoulders and get settled in. I’m just glad I made a couple more after that and had a good first game,” Walker expressed in a postgame interview.

Successful Recovery and Preparation

Prior to joining the game, Walker had spent two months focused on his rehabilitation. Steven Pearl, Auburn’s head coach, noted that Walker’s commitment to his recovery and training has been exemplary. “Simon just attacks everything so aggressively. Whether it’s his training, his rehab, academics, or asking questions in practice. He’s on it,” Pearl stated. “I was really happy for him to make five three-pointers. This was his first live action in two months, and it was great to get him a rotation in there late.”

Walker’s journey to Auburn was marked by notable achievements during his high school career at Huntsville High. He was ranked as the No. 156 overall player in the nation and the second-best player in Alabama according to 247Sports. During his senior year, he played a key role in leading Huntsville to a remarkable 32-2 record, reaching the regional finals before falling to eventual state champions Hoover.

Looking Ahead to the Season

As Walker embarks on his collegiate career, he has a clear message for Auburn fans. “I know one thing: shooters shoot. If I’m open and get a good look, those guys on the bench and on the court with me want me to shoot that shot. And I work on that shot all the time,” he emphasized, showcasing his confidence and readiness for the challenges ahead.

With Walker’s impressive debut, Auburn fans are eager to see how his performance will impact the team as the season progresses. His return adds depth to the roster and brings a dynamic shooting ability that could prove crucial in upcoming games.