Auburn’s 2024-25 Men’s Basketball Roster: A New Era Begins
With the recent commitment of Georgia Tech transfer Miles Kelly, Auburn’s men’s basketball team under the guidance of head coach Bruce Pearl has officially filled all key departures from the 2023-24 season. This signing marks a significant moment in building the roster for the upcoming year, where fans can expect a revamped team ready to make a mark on the court.
The Auburn Tigers are ready to roar in the upcoming season.
Departures and Changes
The offseason has seen its fair share of departures, with multiple players choosing to transfer or facing eligibility issues. Among the notable exits are Aden Holloway, Tre Donaldson, and K.D. Johnson, who will all be traded for new opportunities elsewhere. Additionally, Lior Berman and Jaylin Williams are also stepping away due to graduation and exhaustion of eligibility, respectively.
Carter Sobera, a former walk-on who earned a scholarship during last season, will not return, having graduated. As a result, Auburn has replaced the five departing players, yet it appears that they may leave his scholarship unfilled, following a similar strategy from last season.
Understanding the Roster Changes
As NCAA Division I basketball teams are allowed to fill 13 scholarship positions, Auburn has successfully filled 12 spots on their roster. With a strong lineup in place, there’s a possibility that the Tigers will opt to leave one spot open, allowing flexibility as the season unfolds.
So, who will don the Tigers colors for the upcoming season? Let’s take a first look at Auburn’s finalized 12 scholarship players for the 2024-25 men’s basketball season.
Guards: Speed and Skill
Auburn will be fielding a diverse and talented group of guards that are poised to create mismatches and push the pace of the game. The following are the guards who will take the court:
- Tahaad Pettiford - No. 0
- JP Pegues - No. 1
- Denver Jones - No. 2
- Chad Baker-Mazara - No. 10
- Miles Kelly - recently acquired from Georgia Tech
Among this lineup, Pettiford is particularly notable. Coach Pearl has described him as an “offensive scorer,” and intends to utilize him in off-ball roles in the early stages of the upcoming season. For those wanting to follow his progress, JP Pegues has also been highlighted as a crucial addition to the roster, prepared to take on significant leadership responsibilities.
Forwards: Versatility at Play
The forward positions are equally stacked, with a balance of size, skill, and athleticism:
- Jahki Howard - No. 3
- Chris Moore - No. 5
- Addarin Scott - No. 23
- Chaney Johnson - No. 31
- Ja’Heim Hudson - expected to carve out a niche in the lineup
Hudson’s addition is particularly strategic for the team, as he fits a specific role that the Tigers have long needed. Details about his trajectory can be found in discussions around his strengths that aptly suit the team’s evolving strategy.
Centers: The Backbone of the Defense
Auburn’s plan for dominance continues at the center position, crucial for establishing control in the paint:
- Johni Broome - No. 4
- Dylan Cardwell - No. 44
These centers provide a strong foundation for the team’s defensive strategies, ensuring Auburn remains competitive on both ends of the court.
Looking Ahead: Anticipation Builds
With the roster nearly finalized, expectations are rising for the upcoming season. The combination of experienced talent and fresh additions like Miles Kelly generates excitement about what’s to come for Auburn Basketball. Coach Pearl has consistently demonstrated his ability to develop players and strategize effectively, and fans are eagerly awaiting how he will integrate these new recruits into the team’s gameplay.
As teams across the nation gear up for another thrilling NCAA season, the spotlight will be on Auburn to gauge if they rise to the occasion with their newly assembled roster. Fans should keep a close eye, as the road to success appears promising under Pearl’s leadership and innovative tactics.
Conclusion
In closing, Auburn’s men’s basketball roster for the 2024-25 season is shaping up to be both competitive and compelling. The combination of fresh talent and skilled veterans gives Auburn the potential to contend seriously in the upcoming season, and with the right adjustments, the Tigers may very well dominate their opponents on the court.
Stay tuned to Auburn Basketball for the latest updates and insights as the season approaches!
