Auburn basketball fans were thrilled when point guard Tahaad Pettiford announced his return for another season, especially with exciting prospects for his future. CBS Sports has projected him to be a first-round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, specifically at No. 22 by the Boston Celtics, as noted by analyst Kyle Boone. Boone attributes Pettiford’s ranking to his exceptional shot-making skills, though his 6-foot-1 stature may limit his draft position.
During the 2024-25 season, Pettiford showcased his talent by averaging 11.6 points and three assists per game, with an impressive three-point shooting percentage of 37%. His remarkable ball-handling ability sets him apart from many college point guards, establishing him as a standout not just in the SEC, but throughout college basketball.
One of Pettiford’s standout performances came during a nail-biting 70-68 victory against the Georgia Bulldogs on January 18, where he scored 24 points in a crucial game while teammate Johni Broome was sidelined due to injury. This ability to step up in critical moments suggests that he could consistently be the offensive leader for Auburn this season.
In addition to his regular-season success, Pettiford also excelled during the NCAA Tournament, scoring over 20 points in both the second-round matchup against Creighton and the Sweet 16 game against Michigan, helping lead the Tigers to pivotal victories. His experience at the NBA Draft Combine prior to his decision to withdraw from the 2025 Draft should enhance his development as a burgeoning star.
With all these achievements, there is much to look forward to as Tahaad Pettiford continues to make waves in college basketball, aiming for a bright future in the NBA. Fans should keep an eye on his progress this season, as he looks to further solidify his status as one of the top point guards in the nation.