Tahaad Pettiford made a name for himself at the NBA draft combine in Chicago. Though he only started one game for Auburn, he played like a seasoned pro. Jeff Borzello from ESPN described him as “the best player on the floor” during his first scrimmage. Pettiford dropped 23 points and dished out eight assists with just a turnover. That performance bumped him from No. 39 to No. 37 in ESPN’s mock draft rankings. But rankings only tell part of the story. Tahaad Pettiford received the most votes when fellow draft hopefuls were asked to name the most underrated player in their class.
Tahaad Pettiford Voted Most Underrated Ahead Of Huge Decision
College Role Doesn’t Define Pettiford’s Ceiling
Despite his limited starting experience, Pettiford averaged 17.3 points in four NCAA tournament games prior to the Final Four. He tied with Johni Broome, Auburn’s top player, for scoring in that span. He brought energy, creativity, and poise beyond his years. That kind of confidence from a freshman is rare, especially for someone who stands under 6 feet tall.
Still, his size has never been a true hindrance. He moves quickly, handles the ball with control, and knocks down shots from anywhere. Pettiford thrives under pressure and plays like someone who’s tired of being overlooked.
NBA Decision Looms Large
As the NBA draft nears, Pettiford faces a critical decision. May 28th is the deadline for players to remain in the draft process ahead of the Draft on June 25th. Auburn coach Bruce Pearl said if Pettiford gets a guaranteed first-round contract, he should declare. But if that doesn’t happen, Pettiford may return to school for a bigger role next season.
Pearl believes the young guard’s combine showing has already improved his stock. “If he’s in a really good spot, he’ll go,” said Pearl. “If not, he’ll come back and play a bigger role next year.” Either way, the consensus about Tahaad Pettiford being underrated continues to grow louder in league circles.
A Guard Built for Today’s Game
Pettiford’s game fits the modern NBA perfectly. He shoots 40.4% on catch-and-shoot threes and 36% off the dribble. His footwork and balance allow him to convert even the toughest shots off screens and handoffs. Whether leading the break or playing off the ball, he makes himself useful in any offensive setup.
He can run a team too. Pettiford uses hesitation, crossovers, and in-out dribbles to keep defenders guessing. When pressured, he stays calm and finds the open man. His ability to manipulate defenses with the dribble bodes well for the NBA’s pace-and-space systems.
Defense and Decision-Making Are Works in Progress
Defensively, Pettiford punches above his weight. He stays in front of his man, pressures the ball, and disrupts plays with effort. Despite his size, he even blocked three jumpers this year. He brings a fiery edge on both ends of the court.
But his small frame does come with challenges. He converted just 43.5% of his layups, often because defenders bumped him off course. He also forces too many tough shots near the rim, rather than kicking out to teammates. Improving shot selection and playmaking could unlock another level in his game.
Tahaad Pettiford Set to Make Draft Decision Today
At 19, Pettiford is far from a finished product. But the tools, the work ethic, and the confidence are all there. May 28th is the deadline for staying in the draft mix or returning to college basketball.
Tahaad Pettiford being underrated no longer feels like a hot take—it feels like a scouting report waiting to be proven right.
Whether he hears his name called in the first round or returns to Auburn, Pettiford’s journey is just beginning. NBA teams should take notice now—before it’s too late.
© Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
