“I Love Auburn Till I Die”: Tahadd Pettiford Rejects $6.5M NIL Offer From Florida to Commit to Auburn
In an era where massive NIL deals are reshaping college sports, one of the nation’s top basketball recruits, Tahaad Pettiford, has made a statement that goes far beyond dollars and endorsements. The five-star point guard has officially turned down a reported $6.5 million NIL offer from the Florida Gators, choosing instead to stay loyal to the Auburn Tigers—the program he says has captured his heart.
Pettiford, a dynamic and electrifying prospect known for his explosive speed and fearless court presence, stunned the college basketball world with his decision. In a time when top recruits often follow the money, Pettiford made it clear that for him, it’s all about family, loyalty, and legacy.
“I’m never leaving Auburn. I love Auburn till I die,” Pettiford declared in a video posted to social media. “This school believed in me before the world knew my name. I’m not going anywhere. I want to win championships here, with my brothers, in front of the fans that love me like one of their own.”
The Florida Gators reportedly offered Pettiford a record-setting NIL package in an aggressive late push to sway the guard. Sources say the deal included marketing incentives, endorsements, and appearance bonuses totaling $6.5 million. But Pettiford’s heart never wavered.
Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl responded to the news with pride and emotion, saying: “This is bigger than basketball. This is about character, values, and building something special. Tahaad Pettiford is the kind of young man who makes your program better every day—not just with his talent, but with his heart.”
Auburn fans quickly took to social media, hailing Pettiford’s decision as a defining moment in the school’s basketball history. Hashtags like #LoyalToTheJungle and #Tahaad4Life trended within hours of the announcement.
Pettiford is expected to play a leading role in Auburn’s backcourt from day one, bringing intensity and leadership to a program that has steadily risen to national prominence. More than just a future star, he’s already a fan favorite—an embodiment of loyalty in a sport that too often revolves around short-term deals.
“I’m here to win. I’m here to grow. I’m here because Auburn is home,” Pettiford said. “The money will come, but memories and loyalty? That’s forever.”
With Pettiford on board, Auburn’s future looks brighter than ever—and more rooted in passion than price tags.
