Bruce Pearl Pleased with Auburn’s New Look for 2025-26

After a historic 2024–25 season that saw Auburn reach the Final Four for the second time in program history, head coach Bruce Pearl is embracing a new chapter for the Tigers. With a roster overhaul that includes a mix of returning talent, impactful transfers, and promising freshmen, Pearl is optimistic about the team’s potential for the upcoming 2025–26 season.

The 2024–25 Auburn Tigers concluded their season with a 32–6 record, capturing the SEC regular season title and advancing to the Final Four. However, the team faces significant changes, with every starter from that roster departing. Despite this, Pearl is confident in the team’s prospects, citing the depth and versatility of the new roster.

Departures:

• Johni Broome: The 2025 SEC Player of the Year and Naismith Defensive Player of the Year finalist has declared for the NBA Draft.
• Dylan Cardwell: A stalwart in the paint, Cardwell has also declared for the NBA Draft.
• Chad Baker-Mazara: A key contributor in the Final Four run, Baker-Mazara has exhausted his eligibility.

Key Additions:

• Tahaad Pettiford: A McDonald’s All-American and SEC All-Freshman Team selection, Pettiford is expected to take on a leading role at point guard.
• Emeka Operum: A JUCO standout, Operum brings size and skill to the frontcourt.
• Keshawn Murphy: A versatile forward from Mississippi State, Murphy is anticipated to contribute immediately.
• Kevin Overton: A transfer from Texas Tech, Overton adds depth to the backcourt.
• KeyShawn Hall: A transfer from UCF, Hall brings experience and scoring ability.
• Abdul Bashir: A JUCO guard, Bashir is expected to provide additional perimeter scoring.

With the roster’s transformation, Pearl plans to shift the team’s playing style. The Tigers are expected to adopt a faster-paced offense, focusing on ball movement and perimeter shooting. Defensively, the team will emphasize versatility, with multiple players capable of guarding various positions. Pearl believes this approach will capitalize on the team’s athleticism and depth.

“We’re going to lean into our athleticism and try to get up and down the floor,” Pearl stated. “We’ve got guys who can shoot, defend, and make plays. It’s going to be a different style, but I think it’s one that can be very successful.” He also expressed confidence in the incoming freshmen and transfers, noting their readiness to contribute to Auburn basketball’s culture.

While the team is undergoing significant changes, the foundation laid by Pearl and his staff suggests a promising future. The blend of experienced transfers, talented freshmen, and returning players positions Auburn to remain competitive in the SEC and on the national stage. With Pearl’s leadership and the team’s commitment to the new system, the 2025–26 season holds the potential for continued success.