CHRIS COMPTON/Photo Editor Point guard Doc Robinson takes a shot against Alabama. Robinson has helped lead Auburn to its best record.

The unexpected and surprising year in men's basketball is just what the doctor ordered for Auburn's faithful.

The third-ranked Tigers are led on the court by junior point guard Doc Robinson.

Doc prescribes remedies such as clutch shots and killer crossovers that inadvertently break the ankles of several opposing guards.

Voicing his approval of the season, Robinson said, "I'm very pleased with the season, and I hope that we can keep it going."

So far, the Tigers have had their best start in school history. The previous record was a 20-2 start during the 1927-28 season.

Even in the midst of a spectacular year, some still doubt Auburn's ability. Robinson and the rest of the team use this doubt as a motivator.

"As long as we got people doubting us, that just motivates us to go out and prove ourselves even more," he said.

"We don't mind people doubting us because it makes our team play harder."

Robinson, who was named this week's SEC player of the week, is currently third in the SEC in assists per game, with an average of 5.1. The Selma native is also averaging 10.5 points a contest.

"He knows the game of basketball, and he can play it well," Coach Cliff Ellis said.

"I'm more of a team leader on the court while Bryant (Smith) and Chill are leaders off the court being that they make sure we do the right thing," Robinson said.

However, Ellis sees Robinson as a leader off the court, as well.

Ellis said, "He's a tremendous leader both on and off the court."

Off the court, Robinson has an easygoing attitude that compliments the close relationship he has with all of players.

"We are a big family," Robinson said. "Everybody stays together."

Robinson said, "We try to stay as close to each other as possible. Doing things together helps us to keep a close knit on the court.

"I'm a real outgoing person," Robinson said. "I like to kid around a lot."

Like any other outgoing college student, Doc likes to watch movies with friends and play video games.

"We (players) go out to eat, go to the movies and play video games together," Robinson said.

With all the fun taking place, Robinson still keeps his eyes on the goals ahead.

"My goals here include earning my degree, winning the SEC Championship and winning the National Championship as well," Robinson said.

Robinson, an adult education major, also said he looks forward to his greater role of responsibility next season.

"As a senior, I'm going to have to pick up the responsibility next year on and off the court," Robinson said. "I'm looking forward to it."

That responsibility is currently the leadership Chilliest and Smith possess.

Robinson said, "They've been some great leaders after going through a lot. The things that they had to go through has helped our team to mature."

Smith notes how "the Doc" hasn't let the overwhelming success change who he is.

Smith said, "With all the hype going on, we still play games on the PlayStation and do the same things that we've done before.

"Generally, when people experience a lot of success, it changes them," Smith said. "However, Doc hasn't changed any and that's a sign of a real person."

"He's just a well-rounded human being," Ellis said.

As Ellis compliments Doc, he speaks of the following image.

While Robinson performs on the court, a certain Selma church group cheers him on. Cheering along with the rest of the sellout Auburn faithful, these familiar faces are the same ones who have been voicing their approval from the start.

Ellis said, "I think that tells you a lot about his personality."