Bruce Pearl Provides Update on Tahaad Pettiford’s NBA Draft Status
Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl has a strong desire to see dynamic freshman guard Tahaad Pettiford return to the team for his sophomore season. However, Pearl made it clear that his support for Pettiford’s return hinges on what is truly in the best interest of the young player’s professional aspirations.
Pettiford has turned heads at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago this week, showcasing his skills in front of scouts and executives. His impressive performance has introduced uncertainty about his future—will he return to Auburn for another college season, or will he seize a potential opportunity to enter the NBA?
During a media session on Thursday, Pearl acknowledged that Pettiford’s decision is approaching and likely to be finalized within the next couple of weeks. While Pearl would certainly welcome Pettiford back to Auburn, he emphasized the importance of making the right long-term decision.
“If Tahaad has an opportunity to go in the first round, he should go,” Pearl said. “He’s been underestimated his entire life because he’s only 6 feet tall. We’re going to get quality feedback from the NBA. Signing that first contract gives you the chance to become wealthy. But he won’t leave Auburn unless he’s positioned really well.”
Pettiford’s display at the combine made it difficult for NBA teams to overlook him. Physically, he showed off a 6-foot-5 ½ wingspan and an 8-foot standing reach—remarkable measurements for someone listed at just 6-foot-1. Perhaps the most eye-catching stat was his 42-inch vertical leap, among the highest recorded at the event.
But it wasn’t just about measurements and athletic testing. Pettiford excelled in the 5-on-5 scrimmage, scoring 23 points and dishing out 8 assists in front of dozens of NBA evaluators. His combination of explosiveness, court vision, and scoring touch reaffirmed why he was such a highly regarded prospect out of Jersey City, New Jersey.
His performance didn’t go unnoticed by the national media, either. ESPN NBA Draft analyst Jonathan Givony included Pettiford on his list of standout players from the combine, further fueling speculation that he could climb into the conversation for a spot in the draft’s first round.
As a freshman, Pettiford averaged 11.6 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, playing a crucial role in Auburn’s run to the Final Four. His ability to perform in high-pressure environments, combined with his physical tools and improving playmaking, has made him an intriguing prospect for NBA teams looking to add a sparkplug guard.
The decision now lies with Pettiford, who has until May 28 to withdraw his name from the NBA Draft and retain his college eligibility. The 2025 NBA Draft is scheduled to begin on June 25 in Brooklyn, giving him a bit more time to weigh his options.
Pearl and the Auburn coaching staff are expected to support Pettiford throughout the evaluation process. Pearl’s comments reflect a coach who wants what’s best for his player, even if that means potentially losing a star contributor to the professional ranks.
Ultimately, Pettiford must determine whether another year of development under Pearl’s guidance will enhance his draft stock or if his current momentum is enough to warrant a leap into the NBA now.
Until a decision is made, Auburn fans will wait anxiously, hopeful that Pettiford returns for another season—but understanding that his next step might be toward a promising pro career.
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