Following a season that concluded with a Final Four appearance, Auburn’s basketball team is bracing for significant changes to its roster heading into the 2025–26 season. At this point, rising sophomore Tahaad Pettiford is the only player from last year who might return.
Pettiford, a guard, entered the NBA Draft while maintaining his college eligibility and is currently participating in the NBA Combine. He has publicly stated that unless he receives a guaranteed first-round contract, he plans to return to Auburn for another season. He has ruled out the transfer portal—his only two options are going pro or staying with the Tigers.
With the deadline to withdraw from the draft and retain college eligibility set for Wednesday, May 28, time is running short for Pettiford to make his choice. Head coach Bruce Pearl, speaking at his annual Fore the Children golf fundraiser, mentioned that Auburn is prepared to present Pettiford with a competitive NIL deal and that there’s a strong chance he could return. Pearl noted that a final decision is likely within the week.
Pearl also had high praise for Pettiford, who came off the bench last season and averaged 11.6 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists.
“If he comes back, he’ll take on a bigger role, which I know he’s excited about — and our fans should be too, because they’ll see more of him,” Pearl said, according to Auburn Undercover. “He’ll be a starter. There will be more responsibility on his shoulders.”
While current projections have Pettiford as a likely second-round pick, his strong performance at the combine could influence his draft position in the coming days.