Auburn supporters were thrilled when Tahaad Pettiford revealed in late May that he would return for another season. Even so, the Auburn point guard is still widely expected to become a first round selection in the 2026 NBA Draft. CBS Sports currently projects Pettiford to go No. 22 overall to the Boston Celtics next June. In the projection, Kyle Boone pointed to Pettiford’s shot-making ability as the main reason he belongs in the first round, though he noted that his 6 foot 1 frame could limit how high he ultimately climbs on draft boards.
Pettiford delivered in several key moments for the Tigers during the 2024 to 2025 season. He averaged 11.6 points and three assists per game while knocking down 37 percent of his attempts from three point range. His ball-handling skills make him stand out from many other college point guards. Because of that combination of scoring and playmaking, Pettiford is viewed not only as one of the SEC’s top guards but also as one of the most exciting point guards in college basketball overall.
Among his many strong outings last season, one of the most memorable came on January 18 in Athens when Auburn defeated Georgia 70 to 68. With Johni Broome sidelined due to injury, Pettiford stepped up in a major way, finishing with 24 points. The performance offered a glimpse of what Auburn fans could see more often if he becomes the primary offensive focal point this season.
The combo guard also produced standout moments in the NCAA Tournament. In the second round matchup against Creighton and again in the Sweet 16 against Michigan, Pettiford scored more than 20 points in each contest to help Auburn secure victories.
Before deciding to withdraw from the 2025 NBA Draft, Pettiford also took part in the NBA Draft Combine. That experience likely contributed to the continued growth of a player who is already considered one of college basketball’s rising stars.