Auburn is getting a key piece of its backcourt back just in time to close out nonconference play. Sophomore guard Tahaad Pettiford is expected to return for Monday’s matchup against Queens University after missing time with an ankle injury.
Pettiford went down in last weekend’s game against Purdue after stepping on teammate Filip Jovic’s foot. He didn’t return to the floor, and Auburn went on to suffer a tough 88-60 loss to the Boilermakers - a game that underscored the Tigers’ ongoing struggles against top-tier competition.
But there’s good news on the injury front. Head coach Steven Pearl provided an encouraging update on Saturday, saying Pettiford’s ankle is “fine” and that the sophomore has a history of bouncing back quickly from similar tweaks.
“He’s tweaked his ankle multiple times in his career, even in high school,” Pearl said. “It’s just something he has to continue to monitor and continue to get treatment on. But right now, he’s good.”
Pettiford was back on the practice floor Friday and, according to Pearl, looked sharp - even inspired.
“[Pettiford] responded to some tough coaching and had one of his better practices of the year yesterday,” Pearl added.
That’s a promising sign for an Auburn team that could use a spark. The Tigers are 0-4 this season against opponents ranked in the AP Top 10, and with SEC play looming, the urgency is starting to set in. Monday’s game against Queens might not carry the weight of a ranked showdown, but it’s a critical opportunity for Auburn to reset and build momentum heading into conference play.
Pettiford’s return could be just what the Tigers need. The dynamic guard has shown flashes of star potential this season, especially in big games. He’s averaged 20.3 points in matchups against Houston, Michigan, and Arizona - all high-level opponents - and leads the team in blocks per game with 0.9, an impressive stat for a backcourt player.
Overall, Pettiford is putting up 15.2 points per game, second only to Keyshawn Hall on the roster. His scoring punch, defensive activity, and leadership on the floor give Auburn a different gear when he’s at full strength.
The Tigers will tip off against Queens at 9 p.m. CST on SEC Network. With Pettiford back in the mix and the team hungry to turn the page, it’s a chance for Auburn to finish nonconference play on a high note - and maybe start writing a different story heading into the SEC grind.