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Auburn freshman guard Tahaad Pettiford declared for the 2025 NBA Draft but will maintain his college eligibility, he told ESPN on Monday.

“I’m looking for an NBA team that values my skill set and sees my long-term potential,” he said. “The right fit and organization that values me. I’ll sit down with my family and representation and decide whether to stay in the draft.”

The Southeastern Conference All-Freshman selection averaged 11.6 points, 3.0 assists and 2.2 rebounds in 38 games (one start) as the Tigers reached the Final Four and finished 32-6.

Pettiford led Auburn in assists (113) and finished second on the team in made 3-pointers (70) and fourth in steals (33).

Underclassmen have until May 28 to decide whether to withdraw their names from the draft and maintain their NCAA eligibility for 2025-26.

The transfer portal will not be an option, the 19-year-old Pettiford told ESPN.

“If I return, it will be to Auburn,” he said. “I can’t leave this type of situation. I trust BP (coach Bruce Pearl) with all my heart, so I will roll with him. Loyalty is important to me.”

The 6-foot-1 Pettiford was a McDonald’s All-American in Jersey City, N.J., and ranked as a five-star recruit and the No. 2 point guard in the Class of 2024 by the 247Sports composite.

–Field Level Media