Auburn enters the 2025-26 season with momentum after a standout 2024-25 run that culminated in an SEC regular-season title and a Final Four berth. The Tigers, led by Bruce Pearl, posted a 32-5 overall record, showcasing a cohesive offense and tenacious defense.
Their NCAA tournament journey featured dominant wins: an 83-63 opening-round victory over No. 16 Alabama State, followed by an 82-70 triumph against No. 9 Creighton. In the Sweet 16, Auburn beat No. 5 Michigan 78-65, locking down star Danny Wolf for the final 13 minutes. The Elite Eight saw them top No. 2 Michigan State 70-64, marking Tom Izzo’s first NCAA tournament loss to an SEC team—a historic milestone.
How Auburn’s Tournament Run Sets the Stage for 2025-26
After reaching the Final Four in 2024-25, Auburn heads into the upcoming season with heightened expectations and new challenges. Under head coach Bruce Pearl, the Tigers compiled a 32-6 record and dominated the SEC with a 15-3 mark, capturing the conference’s regular-season crown.
Earning a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament, they notched statement wins over No. 4 Houston, No. 5 Iowa State, and No. 12 North Carolina before falling 79-73 to eventual champion Florida in the national semifinal.
While Auburn returns with momentum, the roster faces major turnover. The departure of key veterans leaves gaps in leadership and production, most notably the absence of Johni Broome, whose presence in the paint was pivotal.
The main question is Tahaad Pettiford. He has averaged 11.7 points per game and wants to try his luck in the upcoming NBA draft. Should he decide to return, it would be a massive step for the team, mainly because he is considered one of the most exciting guards in college basketball.
Chad Baker-Mazara, who contributed 12.2 points per game last season, still has a year of eligibility and could offer continuity if he opts to return. Auburn has already made key additions from the transfer portal, including former UCF forward Keyshawn Hall (18.8 PPG) and Mississippi State big man KeShawn Murphy (11.7 PPG).
Additionally, junior college standout Abdul Bashir, who averaged 27.2 points at Casper College, is expected to bring instant scoring on the wing. Auburn’s projected starting five includes Pettiford, Bashir, Baker-Mazara, Hall, and Murphy, offering a mix of experience and offensive firepower.
KEEP READING: How Far Will Houston’s Men’s Basketball Team Go in 2025-26? Analyzing Their Road to the Final Four.
The Tigers also address frontcourt depth and rebounding by adding JUCO big man Emeka Opurum. Despite roster uncertainty, Auburn ranks second in early SEC power rankings behind Florida, reinforcing its position as a legitimate contender in 2025-26.
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