Auburn University and its basketball community are abuzz following the news that freshman guard Tahaad Pettiford has declared for the 2025 NBA Draft while maintaining his NCAA eligibility. This decision has sparked a mix of reactions from coaches, teammates, fans, and analysts, all contemplating the potential implications for Auburn’s basketball program.
Tahaad Pettiford, a standout freshman for the Auburn Tigers, officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, opting to retain his college eligibility. This strategic move allows him to gauge his draft prospects while keeping the door open for a return to Auburn. His impressive freshman season, where he averaged 11.6 points, 3.0 assists, and 2.2 rebounds over 38 games, earned him a spot on the Southeastern Conference All-Freshman team .
Pettiford’s performance caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to an invitation to the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, scheduled from May 11-18 in Chicago. This event will provide him with an opportunity to showcase his skills against other top prospects and receive feedback from NBA teams .
The Auburn basketball program has expressed support for Pettiford’s decision. Head coach Bruce Pearl praised Pettiford’s contributions, stating, “He’s been sensational all season long… If there are five of the top freshmen in college basketball this year, Tahaad Pettiford is absolutely one of them. I’m so incredibly proud of him” .
Teammate Johni Broome also showed support, highlighting Pettiford’s shot-making ability and competitiveness during the NCAA tournament. Broome noted, “That just shows his shot-making ability, and to be able to just be a dog at times and make plays” .
Auburn fans have had mixed reactions to Pettiford’s announcement. Some express hope for his return, emphasizing the potential for a stronger team next season. One fan commented, “Please come back,” while another noted, “He probably just testing the draft process” .
Others acknowledge the benefits of Pettiford exploring his draft options, understanding that the experience could provide valuable insights for his development. A fan on Reddit remarked, “He’ll either get a draft grade that indicates he should leave… or he’ll learn what he needs to work on to improve his draft status for the following years” .
Pettiford’s decision carries significant weight for Auburn’s basketball program. With the team already facing the departure of key players, including Johni Broome, Pettiford’s return could provide much-needed continuity and leadership. Analysts suggest that his presence would bolster Auburn’s chances for another deep tournament run. CJ Moore of The Athletic noted, “It would have been nice to potentially return Tahaad Pettiford… for at least some continuity from a Final Four team” .
Conversely, if Pettiford remains in the draft, Auburn may need to rely on new talent from the transfer portal and incoming recruits to fill the void. The team’s ability to adapt and rebuild will be crucial in maintaining its competitive edge in the SEC.
Pettiford has expressed gratitude for his time at Auburn and emphasized his commitment to the program. He stated, “We had an amazing year… I couldn’t have asked for a better freshman season” . Importantly, he has clarified that if he returns to college basketball, it will be with Auburn, underscoring his loyalty to coach Bruce Pearl and the team.
The deadline for Pettiford to withdraw from the NBA Draft and retain his NCAA eligibility is May 28. Until then, he will participate in the combine and consult with his family and representation to make an informed decision about his future.
Tahaad Pettiford’s declaration for the NBA Draft marks a pivotal moment for both his career and Auburn’s basketball program. As he navigates the pre-draft process, the Auburn community watches closely, hopeful for his return but supportive of his aspirations. Regardless of his decision, Pettiford’s impact on Auburn basketball is undeniable, and his future in the sport looks promising.
