After a historic Final Four run in the 2024–25 season, Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl faces the challenge of rebuilding a roster that was heavily reliant on senior talent. With several key players departing, the Tigers are actively reshaping their lineup for the 2025–26 season.
Departures
Auburn is set to lose a significant portion of its core, including All-American forward Johni Broome and other senior contributors. Additionally, freshman guard Tahaad Pettiford is a potential NBA Draft entrant, further impacting the team’s depth.
Incoming Talent
To address these gaps, Auburn has secured commitments from several promising players:
•Abdul Bashir: A 6’7” guard from Casper College, Bashir averaged nearly 30 points per game and is known for his scoring versatility and perimeter defense.
•Sebastian Williams-Adams: A four-star power forward ranked No. 44 nationally, Williams-Adams brings defensive versatility and the ability to guard multiple positions.
•Kaden Magwood: A four-star combo guard from Charlotte, North Carolina, Magwood is the top-ranked player in his state and adds depth to the backcourt.
•Simon Walker: A 6’4” four-star guard from Huntsville, Alabama, Walker complements the backcourt with his size and skill set.
These additions aim to infuse the team with fresh talent and maintain competitive performance in the upcoming season.
Outlook
While the departure of seasoned players presents challenges, the infusion of new talent offers opportunities for growth and continued success. Coach Pearl’s strategic recruiting and development efforts will be crucial in navigating this transition and sustaining Auburn’s prominence in college basketball.
