Tahaad Pettiford

Pettiford grew up in Jersey City, New Jersey, and attended Hudson Catholic Regional High School. While he suffered a season-ending injury as a junior, he was selected to play in the 2024 McDonald's All-American Game and Jordan Brand Classic as a senior. As a four-star recruit, Pettiford committed to play collegiate basketball for Auburn University. As a freshman, he operated as the Tigers' primary backup point guard and averaged 11.6 points, 3.0 assists, and 2.2 rebounds in 22.8 minutes across 38 regular-season appearances. For his efforts, Pettiford was named to the 2025 SEC All-Freshman Team. Pettiford also helped Auburn reach the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament, scoring 23 points against Creighton in the Second Round and 20 points against Michigan in the Sweet 16. Pettiford has the ball-handling and shooting ability to create his own shot from behind the arc, but can also use his explosive first step to get to the rim. The Auburn product is proficient at using his scoring gravity to create open looks for his teammates when the defense keys in on him. Defensively, Pettiford has quick hands to create turnovers and is able to use his speed to cut off opponents in transition. Pettiford's shot-creation ability should translate well to the next level, and his burst will help him punish closeouts. His game is reminiscent of Jeff Teague and Brandon Jennings, as athletic point guards who can score from all three levels while also being able to facilitate for teammates. Pettiford's skillset projects as a primary ball-handler off the bench who can run the team's offense.