Auburn University’s basketball program is undergoing a significant overhaul as it seeks to rebound from a challenging season in the SEC. The Tigers have turned to a mix of fresh recruits, experienced transfers and international prospects to reshape the roster and restore competitiveness.
Projected Starting Five
Among the newcomers, point guard Tahaad Pettiford is slated to inherit the ball‑handling duties after a standout season that saw him average 15.4 points per game. At shooting guard, Kevin Overton brings the accolade of NIT Most Outstanding Player and a 14.1‑point per game output from last year.
Mantas Rubštavičius, a Lithuanian forward with a reputation for versatility, will start at small forward, while Thomas Dowd, a South Alabama transfer who topped the Sun Belt in rebounds, anchors the power forward spot.
The depth chart also features several promising backups. George Kimble, a recent Vanderbilt transfer, arrives with an 18‑point per game average from 2024, while Caleb Williams and Simon Walker are expected to provide relief at shooting guard. Adam Olsen, who moved from South Alabama, offers additional frontcourt options at small forward, and Owen Freeman, the 2023‑24 Big Ten Freshman of the Year, adds youthful energy at power forward.
Coaches say the blend of experience and youthful talent should give the Tigers the flexibility to adapt against the league’s toughest opponents. With the new pieces now in place, the team hopes to translate its revamped roster into more wins and a deeper run in the SEC tournament.