Auburn Freshman Guard to Enter 2025 NBA Draft After Final Four Defeat
Following Auburn’s loss in the Final Four to the Florida Gators, a standout freshman guard is exploring his NBA prospects. Guard Tahaad Pettiford has declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, according to the Montgomery Advertiser.
However, Pettiford has not yet signed with an agent, allowing him to retain his college eligibility and potentially return to Auburn for another season. He has until May 28 to decide if he will return to the team.
This move is not unusual; Auburn players like Johni Broome and Dylan Cardwell have done the same in the past, ultimately deciding to return. Pettiford may follow a similar path.
Pettiford has previously mentioned his desire to come back next season, saying, “I hope to come back next year and run it back again.”
Ranked No. 39 in ESPN’s NBA Draft prospects, Pettiford played a key sixth-man role for Auburn this season. With the entire starting lineup graduating, Pettiford could see a significant increase in playing time and a more central role next season.
If he returns, Pettiford, along with new transfer Keyshawn Hall, is likely to become a regular starter for the Tigers. In his first year at Auburn, Pettiford averaged 11.6 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game.
Meanwhile, head coach Bruce Pearl and his staff are gearing up for a busy offseason, as they search for players who fit Auburn’s culture. With numerous players in the transfer portal and a potential roster overhaul, the Tigers could reload for the 2025-26 season, with Pettiford emerging as one of the team’s key leaders.
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