The Auburn Tigers men’s basketball team is undergoing significant transformations as they prepare for the 2025-2026 season. After a remarkable run that saw them clinch the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Tournament title and reach the Final Four, the Tigers are navigating a period of substantial roster changes. With up to 10 players potentially departing, including three starters, Auburn’s coaching staff is actively reshaping the team through transfers and new signings.
The Tigers are facing notable departures that will impact their lineup:
- Johni Broome (Center): A key starter, Broome has exhausted his eligibility and will not return for the upcoming season.
- Dylan Cardwell (Center): Another pivotal presence in the paint, Cardwell has concluded his college career, leaving a gap in Auburn’s frontcourt.
- Miles Kelly (Guard): A consistent contributor, Kelly’s departure adds to the Tigers’ need to rebuild their backcourt.
- Ja’Heim Hudson (Forward): Hudson’s exit signifies a loss in depth for Auburn’s forward positions.
- Chris Moore (Forward): Moore’s departure further challenges the Tigers’ frontcourt depth.
Additionally, four seniors—Chad Baker-Mazara, Chaney Johnson, Denver Jones, and AD Scott—are exploring options for potential returns. The NCAA’s eligibility waiver could grant them an extra year, but their decisions remain uncertain.
Despite the potential losses, Auburn retains talent that can anchor their lineup:
- Jahki Howard (Forward): Howard’s return would provide stability in the forward positions.
- Tahaad Pettiford (Guard): Pettiford’s performance has been commendable, and his decision to declare for the NBA Draft while maintaining college eligibility adds intrigue to Auburn’s backcourt prospects.
To counterbalance departures and strengthen the roster, Auburn has secured several new talents:
- Keyshawn Hall (Forward): A versatile forward, Hall joins from the University of Central Florida (UCF), where he averaged 18.8 points and 7.1 rebounds per game in the 2024-2025 season. His scoring ability and experience are expected to make an immediate impact.
- Abdul Bashir (Forward): Bashir, a junior college standout from Casper College in Wyoming, brings athleticism and scoring prowess to Auburn’s frontcourt.
- Kaden Magwood (Guard): A high school recruit from Combine Academy in North Carolina, Magwood is recognized for his playmaking and shooting skills, adding depth to the guard positions.
- Sebastian Williams-Adams (Forward): Hailing from St. John’s High School in Texas, Williams-Adams offers versatility and athleticism, contributing to Auburn’s forward rotation.
- Simon Walker (Guard): A Huntsville, Alabama native, Walker’s high school performance has earned him a spot, providing additional options in the backcourt.
With the departure of key big men, Auburn’s immediate priority is reinforcing the center position. The coaching staff is actively scouting the transfer portal for experienced centers capable of stepping into significant roles. Auburn’s history of developing centers, including former National Defensive Player of the Year Walker Kessler, positions them attractively for potential recruits.