Throughout the 2024-25 season, Babcock Hoops will provide comprehensive scouting reports on top 2025 NBA Draft prospects, analyzing their strengths, questions, and potential at the next level. Our reports offer an in-depth look at each player's development and draft outlook.
Tahaad Pettiford
Position: Guard
College: Auburn
Class: Freshman
Height/Weight: 6'1", 175 lbs
Birthdate: August 4, 2005
High School: Hudson Catholic (NJ)
Player Overview
Tahaad Pettiford is an explosive, shifty guard with an advanced scoring skill set and a strong outside shot. His quick first step, tight handle, and ability to create space off the dribble make him a dangerous offensive weapon. He thrives in transition, where his vertical athleticism and pace allow him to put pressure on opposing defenses. Pettiford is also a confident shooter, both off the dribble and in catch-and-shoot situations, making him a tough cover for defenders.
However, his lack of size presents challenges, particularly in half-court settings where he can struggle to finish over length. While he is a pesky on-ball defender with quick hands, his overall defensive impact is limited due to his size. He can also over-dribble at times, leading to forced shots or turnovers. If he can improve his playmaking and decision-making, he has the potential to be a dynamic offensive piece at the next level.
"Undersized guards tend to get written off quickly, but there are always exceptions—I think Pettiford is one of them. Whether it's this year or down the road, he needs to be taken seriously. He's extremely talented." — Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst
Strengths
Explosive Athlete: Quick first step and impressive vertical leap allow him to attack off the dribble.
Shooting Ability: A reliable shooter both off the catch and dribble, making him a legitimate perimeter threat.
Shifty Ball Handler: Uses his handle to create separation and generate scoring opportunities.
Controls Pace: Plays with good tempo in transition, knowing when to push or slow the game down.
Pesky Defender: Despite his size, quick hands and effort on the ball make him a disruptive presence.
Concerns
Undersized: At 6'1", he can struggle against bigger, stronger defenders and may have trouble finishing at the rim.
Forces Shots: Can be overly aggressive, leading to tough, contested attempts.
Over-Dribbles: Sometimes stalls the offense by over-handling instead of making quick decisions.
Limited Defensive Impact: Though active, his physical limitations make it hard for him to be a high-level defender.
Questions
Will he be able to compete at the NBA level physically?
Can he improve his passing and decision-making to complement his scoring?
How will he contribute on the defensive end against bigger, stronger guards?
Bottom Line
Tahaad Pettiford is an explosive scoring guard with a strong perimeter game and elite quickness. His ability to create space and knock down shots makes him an intriguing offensive weapon. However, his lack of size and tendency to force shots present challenges. If he can refine his playmaking and become a more efficient decision-maker, he has the potential to be a dynamic spark plug at the next level.