Wed May 28 18:40:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**Star Guard Tahaad Pettiford Withdraws from NBA Draft, Returns to Auburn**
AUBURN, AL – Auburn basketball fans received exciting news today as sophomore guard Tahaad Pettiford announced his withdrawal from the 2025 NBA Draft and his return to the Tigers for the upcoming season. The announcement, made via Pettiford’s Instagram, comes after the standout freshman went through the NBA Draft Combine and received a projected second-round pick from ESPN.
Pettiford, a SEC All-Freshman Team selection, was a key contributor off the bench for Auburn’s Final Four team last season. He averaged 11.6 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists in nearly 23 minutes per game, showcasing his scoring prowess with a .421 field goal percentage and .366 from beyond the arc. His performance in the NCAA Tournament was particularly impressive, averaging 15.2 points and 3.6 assists across five games, including a freshman record-breaking 23-point outburst against Creighton.
At the NBA Draft Combine, Pettiford further solidified his athletic ability, recording the second-best vertical jump at 42 inches and shining in scrimmage play.
Auburn coach Bruce Pearl had previously stated that Pettiford’s decision would hinge on his draft projection, indicating he should pursue the NBA if he were projected in the first round. With Pettiford’s return, Pearl anticipates an expanded role for the dynamic guard. “If he does come back, he’s going to have to play an expanded role… He’ll be a starter. There will be more on him.”
Pettiford’s return bolsters an Auburn roster already loaded with 10 newcomers for the 2025-26 season. Auburn is looking to return to the NCAA Tournament after earning a No. 4 national seed last year.
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