NCAAB News: Tigers star Tahaad Pettiford sends strong warning after victory vs Wolverines

College Basketball is slowly entering its defining stage, and the Auburn Tigers have certainly earned the label of contenders in this March Madness. With a stellar performance from Tahaad Pettiford, Bruce Pearl’s squad dominated the Michigan Wolverines, securing their well-deserved spot in the Elite Eight.

The freshman guard led his team from start to finish, never giving the Wolverines a chance to get into the game. With 20 points to his name, Pettiford was decisive in key moments, ultimately sealing the victory and securing their spot in the next round with a final score of 78-65.

After the game concluded at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, Tahaad Pettiford took some time to speak with the press and expressed that he will do everything in his power to achieve the ultimate goal with Auburn.

“I’m ready for the moment. I want to win it all, so whatever I got to do to win, we will,” Pettiford said, per Trevor Denton of WAAYTV.

Chad Baker-Mazara #10, Tahaad Pettiford #0, Denver Jones #2, and Miles Kelly #13 of the Auburn Tigers look on during the final minute of second half against the Michigan Wolverines in the South Regional Sweet Sixteen round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at State Farm Arena on March 28, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

Broome praised Pettiford’s performance

Throughout the season, Tahaad Pettiford has become one of the cornerstones of the Tigers, who are fighting for a spot in the March Madness final. Johnni Broome, a key figure in the roster, had nothing but words of respect for his teammate.

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“He does whatever it takes to win. When we need a spark, he gives a spark, and he’s a good person, good human being,” Broome stated to the media in the press conference

He finally concluded: “There’s not too many freshmen who can take over a game like he can.”

What’s next for the Tigers?

After the solid victory over the Wolverines, Bruce Pearl’s squad earned the right to compete in the Elite Eight. There, they will face the Michigan State Spartans next Sunday, March 30, once again at the State Farm Stadium in Atlanta.