Auburn fans erupted with excitement on social media after freshman guard Tahaad Pettiford announced he is withdrawing from the 2025 NBA Draft and returning for his sophomore season. Pettiford, who averaged 11.6 points and 3.0 assists per game last season, was considered a potential second-round pick. He cited the desire to improve his draft stock and readiness for the NBA as reasons for his decision .
Auburn’s official social media accounts shared the news with enthusiasm, posting “I’m back” alongside a photo of Pettiford in a Tigers jersey. The Auburn Tigers’ Twitter account also shared a video of Pettiford’s highlights from the previous season, showcasing his impressive skills and contributions to the team’s success. Fans flooded the comment sections with messages of support and excitement, expressing their anticipation for the upcoming season.
The Auburn basketball subreddit, r/wde, was abuzz with discussions about Pettiford’s decision. One user commented, “Crazy to have 2 of the top 4 off the bench,” referring to Pettiford’s role as a key contributor coming off the bench last season. Another fan wrote, “Here’s hoping we at least get another year from Pettiford,” emphasizing the importance of his return to the team .
Pettiford’s decision to return to Auburn is seen as a significant boost for the Tigers’ basketball program. His talent and potential were evident during his freshman season, and fans are eager to see his continued development and contributions to the team’s success in the upcoming season.
