Tahaad Pettiford played a central role in Auburn’s 88-74 victory over LSU on Tuesday, scoring 27 points and delivering a highlight two-handed dunk. The sophomore point guard credited his aggressive approach to the guidance of his coach.
“Trying to get downhill, that’s what our coach preaches,” Pettiford said. “I saw a lane and I’ve been looking for that type of dunk all year, so I was finally glad to get one.”
Pettiford’s father, Travis Pettiford, has been a significant influence throughout his basketball journey. He remains closely involved with Tahaad’s career, attending games and practices.
“Having somebody I can call anytime I need something,” Tahaad said. “When times get hard, somebody that’s close to me. I can talk to him about anything at any time. He’s at every game, every practice, he’s here to support me. Having that father figure in my life means a lot.”
Reflecting on his upbringing in New Jersey, Pettiford described an environment shaped by high expectations rather than participation trophies.
“Definitely tough love,” he said. “Wanting the best for me, pushing to my limit to try to make me the best player I can be.”
As the only scholarship returner from Auburn’s 2025 Final Four and SEC championship team, Pettiford now averages 32 minutes per game—10 more than last season.
“Trying to become a more complete player,” he said. “Become a leader, a guy who does whatever the team needs to win.”
Last season he contributed as a spark off the bench with an average of 11.6 points per game; this year he is averaging 15.1 points while taking on greater leadership responsibilities.
“Last year was more of a role where I needed to be the spark for the team,” he said. “This year, trying to be a leader, guide guys and try to get some more wins.”
Serving as Auburn’s primary ballhandler in nearly every possession this season, Pettiford has maintained an assist-to-turnover ratio of 2-to-1 during SEC play and recorded four games with seven assists against conference opponents.
“Trying to slow the game down, playing our style of basketball,” he said. “Being a point guard, you have to lessen turnovers. Make possessions more valuable for our team to help us win. I try to value possessions as much as I can, feed guys when they’re open and make the right decision.”
Pettiford also acknowledged his increased visibility within the program.
“Communicating with somebody new every single day,” he said. “Anywhere I go, I try to interact with at least one person. You never know, a hi can change somebody’s day. Trying to make new connections anywhere I go.”
Auburn has faced one of college basketball’s toughest schedules this season but has secured top-20 wins over Florida (No. 5), St John’s (No. 18), and Arkansas (No. 20). The Tigers have also beaten Kentucky, Texas and NC State—all teams expected in this year’s NCAA Tournament field—strengthening their case for another postseason appearance.
“Try to finish out strong, do what we need to do to get to the tournament and then go from there,” Pettiford said.
With opponents focused on limiting his impact each night out—and recognizing how important production from point guard is—Pettiford remains committed toward helping Auburn advance deep into March Madness once again.
“Trying to get some more wins,” he said. “Take us to the promised land.”
