Basketball News: 7-6-2026
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Dudley Dent
Jul 6, 2026, 8:00:13 AM (yesterday) Jul 6
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Auburn Basketball News: 7-6-2026
MBB Spotlight: Q&A with center Owen Freeman:
https://auburntigers.com/news/2026/07/2/mbb-spotlight-qanda-with-center-owen-freeman-1
Auburn basketball notebook: 'It's their team':
https://auburntigers.com/news/2026/07/2/auburn-basketball-notebook-its-their-team
Steven Pearl reacts to Narcisse Ngoy’s NBA Draft selection:
https://www.al.com/auburnbasketball/2026/07/steven-pearl-reacts-to-narcisse-ngoys-nba-draft-selection.html
Steven Pearl Names Auburn Basketball’s Two Leaders Ahead of 2026 Season:
https://www.si.com/college/auburn/basketball/steven-pearl-names-auburn-basketball-two-leaders-2026-season
Steven Pearl Gushes About Auburn’s 2026 Roster: ‘This Group is Really Connected’:
https://www.si.com/college/auburn/basketball/steven-pearl-gushes-about-auburn-2026-roster-connected
Where, when to watch former Auburn stars play in the NBA Summer League:
https://auburnwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/college/auburn/mens-basketball/2026/07/02/nba-summer-league-schedule-auburn-tigers-sec/90788308007/
A trio of former Auburn stars square off to begin NBA Summer League:
https://auburnwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/college/auburn/mens-basketball/2026/07/04/auburn-basketball-three-former-players-face-off-in-nba-summer-league-game/90802807007/
Auburn Tigers news roundup: Miles Kelly explodes for the Spurs, Keyshawn Hall and Tre Donaldson quiet for Heat:
https://flywareagle.com/auburn-tigers-news-roundup-miles-kelly-explodes-spurs-keyshawn-hall-tre-donaldson-quiet-heat
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MBB Spotlight: Q&A with center Owen Freeman
Center Owen Freeman enters his first year at Auburn with a chip on his shoulder and something to prove following an injury-plagued 2025-26 season at Creighton.
Freeman is no stranger to the high-level basketball as the 2024 Big Ten Freshman of the Year at Iowa. He was averaging 16.7 points per game as a sophomore for the Hawkeyes before a fractured finger cut his second season short.
At 6-foot-10, Freeman adds instant size and a versatile scoring threat around the rim. Auburntigers.com caught up with Freeman to learn more about his first month on the Plains.
Q&A With Owen Freeman:
Q: How has your first month at Auburn been?
A: I’m loving it. Being able to be here and come to work everyday to connect with the guys and coaches. I am having a lot of fun.
Q: How have the vibes been at practice this first month?
A: I am just trying to bring a lot of energy and be a great teammate. I know that those pieces are really important to teams that win. I am loving practice – it is super competitive but we are having fun out there. You can tell that there is an expectation of winning that is going around the practice gym.
Q: Describe your basketball style.
A: I am a back to the basket kind of player but can also stretch the floor and play make. I will bring a lot of energy and do whatever it takes to win because I really believe in this group and believe in this coaching staff. We are going to have a lot of fun and you are going to see a guy who is going to go out there and give it his all.
Q: What was it about Auburn that led you to choose coming here?
A: The faith and family aspect was huge. Faith is the most important thing to me and the program has a history of people welcoming faith. Also the family atmosphere – you can feel it just walking around campus. The basketball program speaks for itself and the type of culture it has around it, so it was a no-brainer.
Q: Outside of basketball, what have you enjoyed most about Auburn?
A: Getting to explore the city and the surrounding areas with my teammates. Building those memories and just hanging out with them. It has been a lot of fun.
Q: Do you have a favorite restaurant yet?
A: Botanic. I took my parents there and it was awesome.
Q: What are you most looking forward to this season?
A: Being able to compete at the highest level. The SEC – it doesn’t get any better than that. The team we have and being able to compete with them, it is going to be a lot of fun. I can’t wait.
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Auburn basketball notebook: 'It's their team'
Running it back for their second season together at Auburn, Tahaad Pettiford and Kevin Overton could give the Tigers one of the SEC’s top backcourts in 2026-27.
“Those guys understand what we’re doing,” Auburn coach Steven Pearl said. “You see a different level of maturity up to this point with those two, which is something I would like them to continue to build off of because it’s their team.”
Speaking to reporters before Wednesday's AMBUSH alumni and On To Victory event at Lake Martin, Pearl challenged his experienced backcourt to integrate and lead their new teammates.
“They’ve got to make this what they want it to be,” said Pearl of the duo that combined to average 29.5 points per game last season. “The best teams we’ve ever had have been player-led teams. We as coaches can only do so much. The guys that do it internally, that’s when you have something special. That’s one things those guys really have to take the reins on this year. They have to be intentional about their leadership, how they handle themselves, the habits they bring to practice every day and their attitudes. All those things have been good so far. Looking to see them continue to do that.”
“You can see Tahaad and KO trying to really grasp on that leadership role that we’ve really been pushing them toward this summer. Our guys respect them to a point where they’re listening and they’re taking some of the comments, criticisms and some of the things they’re trying to help me implement this summer. It’s been good.”
NBA DRAFTS NARCISSE NGOY
Watching the second round of the NBA Draft on his couch on June 24, Pearl was surprised when the Los Angeles Clippers landed incoming Auburn center Narcisse Ngoy with the 57th overall pick.
“It was wild,” said Pearl, who immediately checked with Ngoy’s agent to confirm the 7-footer’s intention to play for Auburn this season. “We had to take it in stride. Narcisse came out the next day and made his commitment very vocal and was excited about getting to Auburn and getting started with us. When the big fellow made his post on his own, that made us all feel a lot better.”
Auburn announced the signing of the 7-footer on March 31 after Ngoy averaged a double-double in the French Elite 2 League. With Ngoy turning 22 on July13, he was automatically eligible to be drafted without declaring for it.
“It was a surprise to all of us,” Pearl said. “Narcisse was asleep when he got drafted. He had no idea until the next morning because his agent was not aware.
“It’s a testament to him and how he finished out his season. He played phenomenally well. He showed a lot of potential and upside. The Clippers are taking a chance on him but it’s one that could pay off if he comes to Auburn and has a good year or two.”
AUBURN MANTAS
The arrival of Auburn’s international players – Mantas Rubstavicius last Friday and Narcisse Tuesday – completes the Tigers’ roster.
“Mantas comes with a ton of experience at the international level,” Pearl said of the 6-foot-7, 202-pounder from Lithuania. “He’s going to have a lot of similarities to Chad Baker as far as how he plays, his ability to shoot the ball and play out of ball screens.”
The newcomers are scheduled to join their teammates for workouts and practice when the Tigers return from a week off after the Fourth of July weekend.
“I’m excited to see how those two guys fit in next week,” Pearl said. “Excited to see how quickly they’re able to gel, pick up the system and get incorporated with the guys.”
Ngoy and Rubstavicius will try to catch up quickly after their new teammates had a four-week headstart in June.
“So far, our guys have had a productive summer to this point,” Pearl said.
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Steven Pearl reacts to Narcisse Ngoy’s NBA Draft selection
By Peter Rauterkus
al.com
Narcisse Ngoy was asleep back home in France when the news broke.
The 7-footer who recently signed with Auburn had his name called in the second round of the NBA Draft. It created a night of uncertainty for Steven Pearl back on the Plains, who was caught as off guard as the Auburn fans who reacted to the pick on social media.
When the Los Angeles Clippers selected Ngoy, it was the latest example of a “draft and stash” pick. That’s when an NBA team gets the draft rights for a player who’s not necessarily expected to join the team right away.
Usually, however, this happens with players playing internationally, not ones preparing to play college basketball.
“None of us were aware it was happening; there was no communication,” Pearl said during an AMBUSH event at Lake Martin on Wednesday. “I was sitting on the couch watching the draft, and I can’t tell you what I said. It was wild.”
Pearl said he and Auburn’s staff talked to the Clippers’ front office after the selection, and they apologized to Pearl and his staff for the surprise pick.
The rest of that night, there was uncertainty as to whether Ngoy would end up playing for Auburn. Pearl said he and Ngoy’s agent had good conversations, but the uncertainty was put to rest the next morning.
In a post on Instagram, Ngoy reaffirmed his commitment to Auburn, ensuring that he’ll play for the Tigers this season. Pearl confirmed that the French big man arrived on campus on Tuesday.
“We felt comfortable,” Pearl said, “but once the big fella came out and made a post on his own, that made us feel a lot better.”
Ngoy was one of two international signees for Auburn this offseason, joining Lithuanian wing Mantas Rubstavicius, who also recently arrived on campus.
At 7-feet tall, Ngoy adds more much-needed rim protection to Auburn’s frontcourt. After playing professionally in the French Elite 2 League, he joins transfers Bukky Oboye and Owen Freeman in a rebuilt front line after the departures of KeShawn Murphy, Filip Jovic and Emeka Opurum.
“Narcisse has a strong feel for the game on both ends of the floor,” Pearl said after Ngoy signed. “His instincts, ability to catch and finish around the basket, rim protection, and willingness to embrace contact will make him an immediate impact while filling a huge need for our team.”
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Steven Pearl Names Auburn Basketball’s Two Leaders Ahead of 2026 Season
By Griffin Barfield
Auburn Tigers on SI
The Auburn Tigers are looking to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season, in which the program was relegated to the NIT after struggling to put up wins in big games. To their credit, the Tigers were almost entirely composed of new players, a trend that is largely set to continue in 2026.
Several new Tigers will be on the roster this year after many of the Tigers’ expected starters transferred away, but two starters from last season will remain and may play an even bigger role in Auburn’s success this season: Tahaad Pettiford and Kevin Overton.
“You can kind of see Tahaad and KO trying to grasp onto that leadership role that we have really been pushing them towards this summer,” Pearl said. “I think they are trying to lead, which has been encouraging. I think our guys respect them … Those guys understand what we’re doing. I see a different level of maturity up to this point for those two, which is something I would like for them to continue to build off of.”
Pettiford has been with the Tigers ever since signing to their program out of high school in New Jersey, and has been the poster child of the program since the day he stepped onto campus. His production has certainly bolstered his fame on the Plains, and he is looking to continue that trend as he heads into his junior season with Pearl and company.
Overton, on the other hand, never played under Bruce Pearl, as Pettiford did. Rather, he transferred to the Tigers ahead of last season after spending his freshman year at Drake and his sophomore season at Texas Tech. Overton started 36 of the 28 games he appeared in for the Tigers, setting career-high game averages across the board.
These two are the only major contributors from last season who will play with the Tigers in 2026, and Pearl believes their impact and leadership could have a massive effect on the team’s success.
“It’s their team,” Pearl said. “Those are the two guys that came back from last year. They’ve got to make this team what they want it to be. The best teams we’ve had have been player-led teams. We, as coaches, can only do so much. The guys that do it internally, that’s when you have something special… I’m looking for them to continue to do that as the summer goes on.”
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Steven Pearl Gushes About Auburn’s 2026 Roster: ‘This Group is Really Connected’
By Brooks Crew
Auburn Tigers on SI
The Auburn Tigers have had quite a rollercoaster of the past few seasons on the basketball court, going from a Final Four run in 2024 to a NIT run in 2025, and now the Tigers’ roster is set to look completely different once again.
The Tigers are only set to return two starters from last year’s roster: Tahaad Pettiford and NIT Most Outstanding Player Kevin Overton. As a result, the Tigers have been forced to reload, particularly in the big man spots, and Steven Pearl has done so quite impressively.
The Tigers have picked up a litany of top players, including center Narcisse Ngoy from France, guard Mantas Rubštavicius from Lithuania, center Bukky Oboye from Santa Clara, forward Owen Freeman from Creighton, forward Thomas Dowd from Troy, forward Adam Olsen from South Alabama and combo guard George Kimble III from Vanderbilt.
With so many new faces from so many different places, one would expect this team to take a good bit of time to find their bearings and function as a unit. Pearl, however, told the press that the Tigers’ roster is already connecting at a high level.
“Compared to years we’ve had in the past, this group is really connected,” Pearl said. “Now, we haven’t had any adversity. But up to this point, this team has probably spent more time with each other than any team we’ve had in a while, which was probably something we were missing last year.”
In Pearl’s defense, last year was quite a difficult time for the Tigers, especially after the surprise retirement of Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl, which left his son, Steven, to pick up the pieces of a gutted Final Four roster. The younger Pearl did what he could with his limited time, but having so much extra time to get the roster together and connected is clearly benefiting the Tigers.
“You’ve seen some progression of guys making improvements, and a different guy plays well every week, which is encouraging,” he said. “But you really won’t know anything until you go out there and play against other competition. So far, our guys have had a good summer to this point.”
The Tigers are certainly looking to rebound from the disappointment that was last season, and Pearl has put the pieces in place to do so. However, much still remains to be seen with this group, and many questions will not find an answer until the team takes the court for the first time together later this year.
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Where, when to watch former Auburn stars play in the NBA Summer League
By Taylor Jones
Auburn Wire
The 2026 NBA Draft is complete, which means it's time for those picks and free agent signings to show off their skills in a game setting.
Fans will get the first look at these players during the NBA Summer League, which kicks off this weekend in California before moving to Las Vegas later this month. Five former Auburn Tigers will compete in this year's event, including two members of the 2025-26 roster.
Keyshawn Hall and KeShawn Murphy were not selected in the 2026 NBA Draft, but quickly signed Exhibit 10 contracts, which give them the chance to get off on the right foot and impress their new team in the NBA Summer League.
Outside of Hall and Murphy, three other former Tigers will also get the chance to earn extra reps. Dylan Cardwell, Miles Kelly, and Chaney Johnson will also compete in the NBA Summer League. Auburn fans will scratch the itch of basketball season by watching five former stars play in a summer setting.
Which former Auburn Tiger are you most excited to watch? Check out this year's NBA Summer League Schedule below to learn when to tune in.
Sacramento Kings NBA Summer League schedule
Here's a look at when you can watch Dylan Cardwell play for the Sacramento Kings in the 2026 NBA Summer League.
Saturday, July 4 vs Brooklyn Nets (4 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Sunday, July 5 vs Golden State Warriors Blue (4 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Monday, July 6 vs Milwaukee Bucks (9 p.m. CT, ESPNU)
Thursday, July 9 vs Los Angeles Clippers (10 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Sunday, July 12 vs Washington Wizards (7 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Tuesday, July 14 vs Brooklyn Nets (5 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Wednesday, July 15 vs Boston Celtics (7 p.m. CT, ESPN 2)
Brooklyn Nets NBA Summer League schedule
Chaney Johnson will play for the Brooklyn Nets in the 2026 NBA Summer League. Here's when you can watch him live.
Saturday, July 4 vs. Sacramento Kings (4 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Sunday, July 5 vs Milwaukee Bucks (2 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Monday, July 6 vs Golden State Warriors Blue (7 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Friday, July 10 vs New York Knicks (5 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Saturday, July 11 vs Atlanta Hawks (7 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Tuesday, July 14 vs Sacramento Kings (5 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Thursday, July 16 vs Houston Rockets (3:30 p.m. CT, ESPNU)
Miami Heat NBA Summer League schedule
Keyshawn Hall signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Miami Heat shortly after the NBA draft. Here's when you can watch the former Auburn forward in his new threads.
Friday, July 3 vs San Antonio Spurs (7 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Sunday, July 5 vs Los Angeles Lakers (3:30 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Monday, July 6 vs Golden State Warriors Gold (9 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Friday, July 10 vs Milwaukee Bucks (3 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Saturday, July 11 vs Orlando Magic (2:30 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Monday, July 13 vs Cleveland Cavaliers (7 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Thursday, July 16 vs Toronto Raptors (8 p.m. CT, ESPN 2)
San Antonio Spurs NBA Summer League schedule
Miles Kelly is ready to compete with the San Antonio Spurs during the 2026 NBA Summer League. Here's a rundown of when Kelly will play during the event.
Friday, July 3 vs Miami Heat (7 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Sunday, July 5 vs Golden State Warriors Gold (6 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Monday, July 6 vs Los Angeles Lakers (6:30 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Thursday, July 9 vs Atlanta Hawks (3:30 p.m. CT, ESPN 2)
Saturday, July 11 vs New York Knicks (5 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Sunday, July 12 vs Milwaukee Bucks (8 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Wednesday, July 15 vs Utah Jazz (8:30 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Washington Wizards NBA Summer League schedule
KeShawn Murphy has landed a deal with the Washington Wizards and will look to impress his new team in the Summer League. Here's when he will play.
Thursday, July 9 vs Utah Jazz (8 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Sunday, July 12 vs Sacramento Kings (7 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Tuesday, July 14 vs Chicago Bulls (7 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Wednesday, July 15 vs Los Angeles Clippers (9:30 p.m. CT, ESPN)
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A trio of former Auburn stars square off to begin NBA Summer League
By Phillip Jordan
Auburn Wire
The 2026 NBA Summer League got started Friday night with the Miami Heat defeating the San Antonio Spurs 88-87 in a game that featured three former Auburn players.
Miles Kelly is part of the Spurs team after spending his rookie season in the Dallas Mavericks organization and their G-League team, the Texas Legends. For the Heat, they feature rookies Keyshawn Hall and Tre Donaldson. Auburn fans should remember Donaldson from being part of the Tigers from 2022-24 before transferring to Michigan.
While the Heat picked up the win, Kelly had the better game among the former Tigers. Kelly led the Spurs in scoring with 16 points and 7 of 13 from the field in the game. He also added four rebounds and two assists. Kelly is looking to progress in his NBA career after last season. He played in 14 games for the Mavericks, averaging 3.1 points per game. Kelly did play well for the Legends, averaging 22 points per game and shot 40% from three.
Hall and Donaldson did not have the same success as Kelly. Hall only scored four points in his NBA debut for the Heat, scoring late in the first quarter on a layup and catching a lob pass early in the second. On the first basket, he had an opportunity for a three-point play but could not convert on the free throw. Donaldson only scored two points on a layup with 1:03 remaining in the first quarter to give the Heat a 23-16 lead.
Both Hall and Donaldson will have another opportunity on Sunday when they play the Lakers at 3:30 p.m. CT on ESPN. Kelly and the Spurs also play on Sunday when they face the Warriors at 6 p.m. CT on NBA TV and ESPN+.
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Auburn Tigers news roundup: Miles Kelly explodes for the Spurs, Keyshawn Hall and Tre Donaldson quiet for Heat
By Andrew Hughes
Fly War Eagle
Former Auburn Tigers hoops stars were heavily featured during Saturday's California Classic NBA Summer League matchup between the San Antonio Spurs and the Miami Heat. Well, one was an absolute star, and the other two had more modest contributions.
The star was Miles Kelly, who is playing with the San Antonio Spurs Summer League team after being waived by the Dallas Mavericks. In Dallas, Kelly was a bit player but appeared in 14 games. In Sacramento on Saturday, Kelly had 16 points on 7/13 shooting, 2/5 shooting from the three-point line, four assists, two rebounds, and a steal. While the Spurs lost 88-87, Kelly was the best player on the floor for San Antonio's California Classic SL roster.
Meanwhile, Keyshawn Hall and Tre Donaldson struggled in their pro debuts, though to varying degrees. Both took and missed one three-pointer and had three turnovers each, but Hall had a +4 BPM and Donaldson had four rebounds and two assists. Combined, they pitched in six points in 34 minutes.
Lakers nab Walker Kessler, international recruits arrive, 4-star EDGE commits
Miles Kelly is an intriguing shooter for the Spurs to consider
Kelly could shoot his way into a role in Central Texas. San Antonio will perennially be looking for shooters around Victor Wembanyama, so Kelly has the chance to prove to the team's brain trust that he is the ideal complementary piece to the seven-foot-five generational big man.
On the Plains, Kelly sunk 88 three-pointers in his one season, with a 47.7% conversion rate on 25–30 footers. He has the chops to make it work at the NBA level. The Spurs would be an incredible chance to continue his pro career after a year in a different Texas Triangle city.
Keyshawn Hall needs to do more on the floor than score
Hall had his fair share of issues in East Central Alabama. He was suspended by Steven Pearl and had disciplinary issues all season this past winter. Still, Hall helped the team during their NIT Championship run in a big way to redeem himself.
Hall is going to have to overcompensate in the NBA. One-dimensional offense isn't going to cut it, especially with a history of problematic behavior. Hall needs to be the New York Knicks version of Michael Beasley, who had almost six rebounds and two assists per game.
Tre Donaldson may not have an NBA profile
Donaldson is a perfect college player with a high motor and elite physicality for someone who doesn't have overwhelming athleticism or size. Donaldson was a safety by trade before pursuing hoops, after all. Still, he may not make much sense for the NBA, even if his hustle shows up in the box score.
Donaldson simply doesn't have enough offense to hack it. His shooting has cratered since leaving Auburn, and it doesn't look great that the Michigan Wolverines became the best team in college basketball after he left for the Miami Hurricanes, and the Tigers made the Final Four after he was gone. Donaldson needs to prove himself this summer, way more so than he did on Saturday, if he wants to see the floor for an NBA team this winter.
MBB Spotlight: Q&A with center Owen Freeman:
https://auburntigers.com/news/2026/07/2/mbb-spotlight-qanda-with-center-owen-freeman-1
Auburn basketball notebook: 'It's their team':
https://auburntigers.com/news/2026/07/2/auburn-basketball-notebook-its-their-team
Steven Pearl reacts to Narcisse Ngoy’s NBA Draft selection:
https://www.al.com/auburnbasketball/2026/07/steven-pearl-reacts-to-narcisse-ngoys-nba-draft-selection.html
Steven Pearl Names Auburn Basketball’s Two Leaders Ahead of 2026 Season:
https://www.si.com/college/auburn/basketball/steven-pearl-names-auburn-basketball-two-leaders-2026-season
Steven Pearl Gushes About Auburn’s 2026 Roster: ‘This Group is Really Connected’:
https://www.si.com/college/auburn/basketball/steven-pearl-gushes-about-auburn-2026-roster-connected
Where, when to watch former Auburn stars play in the NBA Summer League:
https://auburnwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/college/auburn/mens-basketball/2026/07/02/nba-summer-league-schedule-auburn-tigers-sec/90788308007/
A trio of former Auburn stars square off to begin NBA Summer League:
https://auburnwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/college/auburn/mens-basketball/2026/07/04/auburn-basketball-three-former-players-face-off-in-nba-summer-league-game/90802807007/
Auburn Tigers news roundup: Miles Kelly explodes for the Spurs, Keyshawn Hall and Tre Donaldson quiet for Heat:
https://flywareagle.com/auburn-tigers-news-roundup-miles-kelly-explodes-spurs-keyshawn-hall-tre-donaldson-quiet-heat
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MBB Spotlight: Q&A with center Owen Freeman
Center Owen Freeman enters his first year at Auburn with a chip on his shoulder and something to prove following an injury-plagued 2025-26 season at Creighton.
Freeman is no stranger to the high-level basketball as the 2024 Big Ten Freshman of the Year at Iowa. He was averaging 16.7 points per game as a sophomore for the Hawkeyes before a fractured finger cut his second season short.
At 6-foot-10, Freeman adds instant size and a versatile scoring threat around the rim. Auburntigers.com caught up with Freeman to learn more about his first month on the Plains.
Q&A With Owen Freeman:
Q: How has your first month at Auburn been?
A: I’m loving it. Being able to be here and come to work everyday to connect with the guys and coaches. I am having a lot of fun.
Q: How have the vibes been at practice this first month?
A: I am just trying to bring a lot of energy and be a great teammate. I know that those pieces are really important to teams that win. I am loving practice – it is super competitive but we are having fun out there. You can tell that there is an expectation of winning that is going around the practice gym.
Q: Describe your basketball style.
A: I am a back to the basket kind of player but can also stretch the floor and play make. I will bring a lot of energy and do whatever it takes to win because I really believe in this group and believe in this coaching staff. We are going to have a lot of fun and you are going to see a guy who is going to go out there and give it his all.
Q: What was it about Auburn that led you to choose coming here?
A: The faith and family aspect was huge. Faith is the most important thing to me and the program has a history of people welcoming faith. Also the family atmosphere – you can feel it just walking around campus. The basketball program speaks for itself and the type of culture it has around it, so it was a no-brainer.
Q: Outside of basketball, what have you enjoyed most about Auburn?
A: Getting to explore the city and the surrounding areas with my teammates. Building those memories and just hanging out with them. It has been a lot of fun.
Q: Do you have a favorite restaurant yet?
A: Botanic. I took my parents there and it was awesome.
Q: What are you most looking forward to this season?
A: Being able to compete at the highest level. The SEC – it doesn’t get any better than that. The team we have and being able to compete with them, it is going to be a lot of fun. I can’t wait.
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Auburn basketball notebook: 'It's their team'
Running it back for their second season together at Auburn, Tahaad Pettiford and Kevin Overton could give the Tigers one of the SEC’s top backcourts in 2026-27.
“Those guys understand what we’re doing,” Auburn coach Steven Pearl said. “You see a different level of maturity up to this point with those two, which is something I would like them to continue to build off of because it’s their team.”
Speaking to reporters before Wednesday's AMBUSH alumni and On To Victory event at Lake Martin, Pearl challenged his experienced backcourt to integrate and lead their new teammates.
“They’ve got to make this what they want it to be,” said Pearl of the duo that combined to average 29.5 points per game last season. “The best teams we’ve ever had have been player-led teams. We as coaches can only do so much. The guys that do it internally, that’s when you have something special. That’s one things those guys really have to take the reins on this year. They have to be intentional about their leadership, how they handle themselves, the habits they bring to practice every day and their attitudes. All those things have been good so far. Looking to see them continue to do that.”
“You can see Tahaad and KO trying to really grasp on that leadership role that we’ve really been pushing them toward this summer. Our guys respect them to a point where they’re listening and they’re taking some of the comments, criticisms and some of the things they’re trying to help me implement this summer. It’s been good.”
NBA DRAFTS NARCISSE NGOY
Watching the second round of the NBA Draft on his couch on June 24, Pearl was surprised when the Los Angeles Clippers landed incoming Auburn center Narcisse Ngoy with the 57th overall pick.
“It was wild,” said Pearl, who immediately checked with Ngoy’s agent to confirm the 7-footer’s intention to play for Auburn this season. “We had to take it in stride. Narcisse came out the next day and made his commitment very vocal and was excited about getting to Auburn and getting started with us. When the big fellow made his post on his own, that made us all feel a lot better.”
Auburn announced the signing of the 7-footer on March 31 after Ngoy averaged a double-double in the French Elite 2 League. With Ngoy turning 22 on July13, he was automatically eligible to be drafted without declaring for it.
“It was a surprise to all of us,” Pearl said. “Narcisse was asleep when he got drafted. He had no idea until the next morning because his agent was not aware.
“It’s a testament to him and how he finished out his season. He played phenomenally well. He showed a lot of potential and upside. The Clippers are taking a chance on him but it’s one that could pay off if he comes to Auburn and has a good year or two.”
AUBURN MANTAS
The arrival of Auburn’s international players – Mantas Rubstavicius last Friday and Narcisse Tuesday – completes the Tigers’ roster.
“Mantas comes with a ton of experience at the international level,” Pearl said of the 6-foot-7, 202-pounder from Lithuania. “He’s going to have a lot of similarities to Chad Baker as far as how he plays, his ability to shoot the ball and play out of ball screens.”
The newcomers are scheduled to join their teammates for workouts and practice when the Tigers return from a week off after the Fourth of July weekend.
“I’m excited to see how those two guys fit in next week,” Pearl said. “Excited to see how quickly they’re able to gel, pick up the system and get incorporated with the guys.”
Ngoy and Rubstavicius will try to catch up quickly after their new teammates had a four-week headstart in June.
“So far, our guys have had a productive summer to this point,” Pearl said.
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Steven Pearl reacts to Narcisse Ngoy’s NBA Draft selection
By Peter Rauterkus
al.com
Narcisse Ngoy was asleep back home in France when the news broke.
The 7-footer who recently signed with Auburn had his name called in the second round of the NBA Draft. It created a night of uncertainty for Steven Pearl back on the Plains, who was caught as off guard as the Auburn fans who reacted to the pick on social media.
When the Los Angeles Clippers selected Ngoy, it was the latest example of a “draft and stash” pick. That’s when an NBA team gets the draft rights for a player who’s not necessarily expected to join the team right away.
Usually, however, this happens with players playing internationally, not ones preparing to play college basketball.
“None of us were aware it was happening; there was no communication,” Pearl said during an AMBUSH event at Lake Martin on Wednesday. “I was sitting on the couch watching the draft, and I can’t tell you what I said. It was wild.”
Pearl said he and Auburn’s staff talked to the Clippers’ front office after the selection, and they apologized to Pearl and his staff for the surprise pick.
The rest of that night, there was uncertainty as to whether Ngoy would end up playing for Auburn. Pearl said he and Ngoy’s agent had good conversations, but the uncertainty was put to rest the next morning.
In a post on Instagram, Ngoy reaffirmed his commitment to Auburn, ensuring that he’ll play for the Tigers this season. Pearl confirmed that the French big man arrived on campus on Tuesday.
“We felt comfortable,” Pearl said, “but once the big fella came out and made a post on his own, that made us feel a lot better.”
Ngoy was one of two international signees for Auburn this offseason, joining Lithuanian wing Mantas Rubstavicius, who also recently arrived on campus.
At 7-feet tall, Ngoy adds more much-needed rim protection to Auburn’s frontcourt. After playing professionally in the French Elite 2 League, he joins transfers Bukky Oboye and Owen Freeman in a rebuilt front line after the departures of KeShawn Murphy, Filip Jovic and Emeka Opurum.
“Narcisse has a strong feel for the game on both ends of the floor,” Pearl said after Ngoy signed. “His instincts, ability to catch and finish around the basket, rim protection, and willingness to embrace contact will make him an immediate impact while filling a huge need for our team.”
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Steven Pearl Names Auburn Basketball’s Two Leaders Ahead of 2026 Season
By Griffin Barfield
Auburn Tigers on SI
The Auburn Tigers are looking to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season, in which the program was relegated to the NIT after struggling to put up wins in big games. To their credit, the Tigers were almost entirely composed of new players, a trend that is largely set to continue in 2026.
Several new Tigers will be on the roster this year after many of the Tigers’ expected starters transferred away, but two starters from last season will remain and may play an even bigger role in Auburn’s success this season: Tahaad Pettiford and Kevin Overton.
“You can kind of see Tahaad and KO trying to grasp onto that leadership role that we have really been pushing them towards this summer,” Pearl said. “I think they are trying to lead, which has been encouraging. I think our guys respect them … Those guys understand what we’re doing. I see a different level of maturity up to this point for those two, which is something I would like for them to continue to build off of.”
Pettiford has been with the Tigers ever since signing to their program out of high school in New Jersey, and has been the poster child of the program since the day he stepped onto campus. His production has certainly bolstered his fame on the Plains, and he is looking to continue that trend as he heads into his junior season with Pearl and company.
Overton, on the other hand, never played under Bruce Pearl, as Pettiford did. Rather, he transferred to the Tigers ahead of last season after spending his freshman year at Drake and his sophomore season at Texas Tech. Overton started 36 of the 28 games he appeared in for the Tigers, setting career-high game averages across the board.
These two are the only major contributors from last season who will play with the Tigers in 2026, and Pearl believes their impact and leadership could have a massive effect on the team’s success.
“It’s their team,” Pearl said. “Those are the two guys that came back from last year. They’ve got to make this team what they want it to be. The best teams we’ve had have been player-led teams. We, as coaches, can only do so much. The guys that do it internally, that’s when you have something special… I’m looking for them to continue to do that as the summer goes on.”
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Steven Pearl Gushes About Auburn’s 2026 Roster: ‘This Group is Really Connected’
By Brooks Crew
Auburn Tigers on SI
The Auburn Tigers have had quite a rollercoaster of the past few seasons on the basketball court, going from a Final Four run in 2024 to a NIT run in 2025, and now the Tigers’ roster is set to look completely different once again.
The Tigers are only set to return two starters from last year’s roster: Tahaad Pettiford and NIT Most Outstanding Player Kevin Overton. As a result, the Tigers have been forced to reload, particularly in the big man spots, and Steven Pearl has done so quite impressively.
The Tigers have picked up a litany of top players, including center Narcisse Ngoy from France, guard Mantas Rubštavicius from Lithuania, center Bukky Oboye from Santa Clara, forward Owen Freeman from Creighton, forward Thomas Dowd from Troy, forward Adam Olsen from South Alabama and combo guard George Kimble III from Vanderbilt.
With so many new faces from so many different places, one would expect this team to take a good bit of time to find their bearings and function as a unit. Pearl, however, told the press that the Tigers’ roster is already connecting at a high level.
“Compared to years we’ve had in the past, this group is really connected,” Pearl said. “Now, we haven’t had any adversity. But up to this point, this team has probably spent more time with each other than any team we’ve had in a while, which was probably something we were missing last year.”
In Pearl’s defense, last year was quite a difficult time for the Tigers, especially after the surprise retirement of Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl, which left his son, Steven, to pick up the pieces of a gutted Final Four roster. The younger Pearl did what he could with his limited time, but having so much extra time to get the roster together and connected is clearly benefiting the Tigers.
“You’ve seen some progression of guys making improvements, and a different guy plays well every week, which is encouraging,” he said. “But you really won’t know anything until you go out there and play against other competition. So far, our guys have had a good summer to this point.”
The Tigers are certainly looking to rebound from the disappointment that was last season, and Pearl has put the pieces in place to do so. However, much still remains to be seen with this group, and many questions will not find an answer until the team takes the court for the first time together later this year.
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Where, when to watch former Auburn stars play in the NBA Summer League
By Taylor Jones
Auburn Wire
The 2026 NBA Draft is complete, which means it's time for those picks and free agent signings to show off their skills in a game setting.
Fans will get the first look at these players during the NBA Summer League, which kicks off this weekend in California before moving to Las Vegas later this month. Five former Auburn Tigers will compete in this year's event, including two members of the 2025-26 roster.
Keyshawn Hall and KeShawn Murphy were not selected in the 2026 NBA Draft, but quickly signed Exhibit 10 contracts, which give them the chance to get off on the right foot and impress their new team in the NBA Summer League.
Outside of Hall and Murphy, three other former Tigers will also get the chance to earn extra reps. Dylan Cardwell, Miles Kelly, and Chaney Johnson will also compete in the NBA Summer League. Auburn fans will scratch the itch of basketball season by watching five former stars play in a summer setting.
Which former Auburn Tiger are you most excited to watch? Check out this year's NBA Summer League Schedule below to learn when to tune in.
Sacramento Kings NBA Summer League schedule
Here's a look at when you can watch Dylan Cardwell play for the Sacramento Kings in the 2026 NBA Summer League.
Saturday, July 4 vs Brooklyn Nets (4 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Sunday, July 5 vs Golden State Warriors Blue (4 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Monday, July 6 vs Milwaukee Bucks (9 p.m. CT, ESPNU)
Thursday, July 9 vs Los Angeles Clippers (10 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Sunday, July 12 vs Washington Wizards (7 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Tuesday, July 14 vs Brooklyn Nets (5 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Wednesday, July 15 vs Boston Celtics (7 p.m. CT, ESPN 2)
Brooklyn Nets NBA Summer League schedule
Chaney Johnson will play for the Brooklyn Nets in the 2026 NBA Summer League. Here's when you can watch him live.
Saturday, July 4 vs. Sacramento Kings (4 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Sunday, July 5 vs Milwaukee Bucks (2 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Monday, July 6 vs Golden State Warriors Blue (7 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Friday, July 10 vs New York Knicks (5 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Saturday, July 11 vs Atlanta Hawks (7 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Tuesday, July 14 vs Sacramento Kings (5 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Thursday, July 16 vs Houston Rockets (3:30 p.m. CT, ESPNU)
Miami Heat NBA Summer League schedule
Keyshawn Hall signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Miami Heat shortly after the NBA draft. Here's when you can watch the former Auburn forward in his new threads.
Friday, July 3 vs San Antonio Spurs (7 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Sunday, July 5 vs Los Angeles Lakers (3:30 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Monday, July 6 vs Golden State Warriors Gold (9 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Friday, July 10 vs Milwaukee Bucks (3 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Saturday, July 11 vs Orlando Magic (2:30 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Monday, July 13 vs Cleveland Cavaliers (7 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Thursday, July 16 vs Toronto Raptors (8 p.m. CT, ESPN 2)
San Antonio Spurs NBA Summer League schedule
Miles Kelly is ready to compete with the San Antonio Spurs during the 2026 NBA Summer League. Here's a rundown of when Kelly will play during the event.
Friday, July 3 vs Miami Heat (7 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Sunday, July 5 vs Golden State Warriors Gold (6 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Monday, July 6 vs Los Angeles Lakers (6:30 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Thursday, July 9 vs Atlanta Hawks (3:30 p.m. CT, ESPN 2)
Saturday, July 11 vs New York Knicks (5 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Sunday, July 12 vs Milwaukee Bucks (8 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Wednesday, July 15 vs Utah Jazz (8:30 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Washington Wizards NBA Summer League schedule
KeShawn Murphy has landed a deal with the Washington Wizards and will look to impress his new team in the Summer League. Here's when he will play.
Thursday, July 9 vs Utah Jazz (8 p.m. CT, ESPN)
Sunday, July 12 vs Sacramento Kings (7 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Tuesday, July 14 vs Chicago Bulls (7 p.m. CT, Prime Video)
Wednesday, July 15 vs Los Angeles Clippers (9:30 p.m. CT, ESPN)
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A trio of former Auburn stars square off to begin NBA Summer League
By Phillip Jordan
Auburn Wire
The 2026 NBA Summer League got started Friday night with the Miami Heat defeating the San Antonio Spurs 88-87 in a game that featured three former Auburn players.
Miles Kelly is part of the Spurs team after spending his rookie season in the Dallas Mavericks organization and their G-League team, the Texas Legends. For the Heat, they feature rookies Keyshawn Hall and Tre Donaldson. Auburn fans should remember Donaldson from being part of the Tigers from 2022-24 before transferring to Michigan.
While the Heat picked up the win, Kelly had the better game among the former Tigers. Kelly led the Spurs in scoring with 16 points and 7 of 13 from the field in the game. He also added four rebounds and two assists. Kelly is looking to progress in his NBA career after last season. He played in 14 games for the Mavericks, averaging 3.1 points per game. Kelly did play well for the Legends, averaging 22 points per game and shot 40% from three.
Hall and Donaldson did not have the same success as Kelly. Hall only scored four points in his NBA debut for the Heat, scoring late in the first quarter on a layup and catching a lob pass early in the second. On the first basket, he had an opportunity for a three-point play but could not convert on the free throw. Donaldson only scored two points on a layup with 1:03 remaining in the first quarter to give the Heat a 23-16 lead.
Both Hall and Donaldson will have another opportunity on Sunday when they play the Lakers at 3:30 p.m. CT on ESPN. Kelly and the Spurs also play on Sunday when they face the Warriors at 6 p.m. CT on NBA TV and ESPN+.
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Auburn Tigers news roundup: Miles Kelly explodes for the Spurs, Keyshawn Hall and Tre Donaldson quiet for Heat
By Andrew Hughes
Fly War Eagle
Former Auburn Tigers hoops stars were heavily featured during Saturday's California Classic NBA Summer League matchup between the San Antonio Spurs and the Miami Heat. Well, one was an absolute star, and the other two had more modest contributions.
The star was Miles Kelly, who is playing with the San Antonio Spurs Summer League team after being waived by the Dallas Mavericks. In Dallas, Kelly was a bit player but appeared in 14 games. In Sacramento on Saturday, Kelly had 16 points on 7/13 shooting, 2/5 shooting from the three-point line, four assists, two rebounds, and a steal. While the Spurs lost 88-87, Kelly was the best player on the floor for San Antonio's California Classic SL roster.
Meanwhile, Keyshawn Hall and Tre Donaldson struggled in their pro debuts, though to varying degrees. Both took and missed one three-pointer and had three turnovers each, but Hall had a +4 BPM and Donaldson had four rebounds and two assists. Combined, they pitched in six points in 34 minutes.
Lakers nab Walker Kessler, international recruits arrive, 4-star EDGE commits
Miles Kelly is an intriguing shooter for the Spurs to consider
Kelly could shoot his way into a role in Central Texas. San Antonio will perennially be looking for shooters around Victor Wembanyama, so Kelly has the chance to prove to the team's brain trust that he is the ideal complementary piece to the seven-foot-five generational big man.
On the Plains, Kelly sunk 88 three-pointers in his one season, with a 47.7% conversion rate on 25–30 footers. He has the chops to make it work at the NBA level. The Spurs would be an incredible chance to continue his pro career after a year in a different Texas Triangle city.
Keyshawn Hall needs to do more on the floor than score
Hall had his fair share of issues in East Central Alabama. He was suspended by Steven Pearl and had disciplinary issues all season this past winter. Still, Hall helped the team during their NIT Championship run in a big way to redeem himself.
Hall is going to have to overcompensate in the NBA. One-dimensional offense isn't going to cut it, especially with a history of problematic behavior. Hall needs to be the New York Knicks version of Michael Beasley, who had almost six rebounds and two assists per game.
Tre Donaldson may not have an NBA profile
Donaldson is a perfect college player with a high motor and elite physicality for someone who doesn't have overwhelming athleticism or size. Donaldson was a safety by trade before pursuing hoops, after all. Still, he may not make much sense for the NBA, even if his hustle shows up in the box score.
Donaldson simply doesn't have enough offense to hack it. His shooting has cratered since leaving Auburn, and it doesn't look great that the Michigan Wolverines became the best team in college basketball after he left for the Miami Hurricanes, and the Tigers made the Final Four after he was gone. Donaldson needs to prove himself this summer, way more so than he did on Saturday, if he wants to see the floor for an NBA team this winter.
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