Tahaad Pettiford and key Auburn transfer to stay with Tigers despite Bruce Pearl retirement, per report
By Jyesha Nance
Published:
Great news is on the horizon for Auburn Basketball fans. According to Justin Hokanson of AuburnOn3, Keyshawn Hall and Tahaad Pettiford will not enter the transfer portal and plan to return for the 2025-26 season.
Steven Pearl, who took over the reins of the Tigers following his father Bruce Pearl’s retirement, announced the news publicly after Pro Day. “All the guys we had here this summer are going to be putting on Auburn jerseys this season,” Pearl said.
Hall, is known for his versatile scoring ability and size on the perimeter. He was a consistent contributor during his time with the UCF Knights, averaging 18.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.4 assists a game. He emerged as one of the Knights’ most reliable offensive weapons. After one season with the Knights, he decided to enter the transfer portal and begin his career at his fourth collegiate basketball program.
Pettiford was a true freshman and a dynamic guard with elite quickness who showed flashes of star potential during the 2024 season. Pettiford averaged 11.6 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists last season. The young star had the potential of being drafted to the NBA with just one year of college experience under his belt but ultimately decided to return to college.
Both are expected to take on an even larger role with the absence of Johni Broome and Chad Baker-Mazara. Their returns provide Auburn with veteran experience and depth at a time of transition. With the program shifting into a new era under Pearl, retaining proven talent is critical to maintaining continuity and competing in a loaded SEC.
