Tahaad Pettiford is an American college basketball player who currently plays as a point guard for the Auburn Tigers in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Born on August 4, 2005, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Pettiford has quickly risen through the ranks of college basketball, earning recognition for his explosive scoring ability, playmaking skills, and fearless competitiveness.
Table of Contents
Early Life and High School Career
Growing up in Jersey City, New Jersey, Pettiford attended Hudson Catholic Regional High School. During his high school career, he showcased exceptional talent on the basketball court. In his senior year, he averaged over 19 points per game and was selected to play in the prestigious 2024 McDonald’s All-American Game.
College Career at Auburn
Pettiford committed to playing college basketball for Auburn University on February 1, 2023, over offers from Seton Hall, Ole Miss, Kansas, Kentucky, UConn, and UCLA. As a freshman, he made an immediate impact on the court. In his debut game, he scored 21 points with three assists and three rebounds in a victory over fourth-ranked Houston. Throughout the 2024-25 season, Pettiford averaged 11.6 points, 3.0 assists, and 2.2 rebounds per game, leading Auburn in assists and three-pointers made.
His performance earned him a spot on the SEC All-Freshman Team and recognition as a McDonald’s All-American. Pettiford played a crucial role in Auburn’s successful season, which included a Final Four appearance. His ability to score, facilitate, and defend made him one of the standout freshmen in college basketball.
Decision to Return for Sophomore Season
After a strong freshman campaign, Pettiford declared for the 2025 NBA Draft while maintaining his NCAA eligibility. However, he ultimately decided to withdraw from the draft and return to Auburn for his sophomore season. Pettiford cited the desire to improve his draft stock and readiness for the NBA as reasons for his decision. He expressed confidence in his abilities but acknowledged that the timing wasn’t right for entering the league.
Legal Incident
In July 2025, Pettiford was arrested on a DUI charge in Lee County, Alabama. At just 19 years old, Pettiford is under Alabama’s legal drinking age, which makes any blood-alcohol level above 0.02% illegal. He was released on a $1,000 bond. Auburn’s head coach Bruce Pearl acknowledged the incident, stating the matter would be addressed internally.
FAQs
Q1: What position does Tahaad Pettiford play?
A1: Tahaad Pettiford plays as a point guard for the Auburn Tigers.
Q2: What are Tahaad Pettiford’s career statistics?
A2: As of the 2024-25 season, Pettiford averaged 11.6 points, 3.0 assists, and 2.2 rebounds per game.
Q3: What honors has Tahaad Pettiford received?
A3: Pettiford was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team and was a McDonald’s All-American in 2024.
Q4: What was Pettiford’s decision regarding the NBA Draft?
A4: Pettiford declared for the 2025 NBA Draft but later withdrew to return to Auburn for his sophomore season.
Q5: Has Tahaad Pettiford faced any legal issues?
A5: Yes, in July 2025, Pettiford was arrested on a DUI charge in Lee County, Alabama.