In a stunning development, legendary Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl has announced his retirement just weeks before the start of the 2025-26 college basketball season. His departure opens the door for Duke’s Jon Scheyer to make a serious push for Auburn guard.
With Pearl stepping down, his son Steven Pearl will take over the program, but the sudden coaching change has triggered a 30-day transfer portal window for Auburn players. Pettiford, a rising star, could consider his options under the new staff. For Scheyer—already regarded as one of the nation’s top recruiters—this is a golden opportunity. He should move aggressively to bring the talented sophomore to Durham before the season tips off.
Tahaad Pettiford emerged as one of the most exciting freshmen in college basketball last season, transforming from a relatively unknown recruit into must-watch television. The Jersey City product even drew early NBA Draft buzz as a potential second-round pick but chose to return to Auburn for a sophomore season in a featured role.
In his debut year, Pettiford averaged 11.6 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists while shooting 42.1% from the floor and 36.6% from deep. At 6’1, he’s a dynamic, explosive guard who can score at all three levels, lock down defensively, and bring relentless energy. His skill set and intensity would fit seamlessly inside Cameron Indoor Stadium.
Duke’s backcourt is stacked with talent in Caleb Foster, Isaiah Evans, and Cayden Boozer, but most of that group remains unproven. Foster struggled through a disappointing sophomore campaign and was often glued to the bench late in the season. Boozer has shown remarkable growth and is one of the nation’s most hyped newcomers, but he’s still a freshman yet to face elite competition.
That’s where Pettiford could be a difference-maker. Even while averaging just 22 minutes per game, he was one of Auburn’s most efficient contributors on a team that earned a No. 1 seed and advanced to the Final Four. He enters this season as a popular breakout candidate and has already proven he can thrive on a championship-caliber squad.
Yes, bringing him to Duke would further crowd an already loaded backcourt—but Pettiford isn’t just another guard. He’s a proven, high-level talent with the experience and competitive edge this Blue Devils roster needs. Despite only being a sophomore, he already carries the pedigree of a player capable of leading a title contender.