Auburn basketball continues to reshape its roster through the transfer portal, and the addition of former Texas Tech guard Kevin Overton adds a significant piece to the puzzle. The 6-foot-5, 200-pound guard from Oklahoma City announced his commitment to Auburn via Instagram bringing with him experience, size, and versatility to Bruce Pearl’s backcourt.
Overton averaged 7.8 points and 3.7 rebounds per game during his sophomore campaign at Texas Tech, showcasing his scoring ability and contributing across the board. He shot 42.2% from the field and 33.1% from beyond the arc (39-of-118), indicating a solid, though still developing, perimeter game. His physical frame and defensive presence should give Auburn a reliable wing option capable of defending multiple positions while contributing offensively.
Before landing at Texas Tech, Overton played his freshman season at Drake, where he made an immediate impact. He started every game for the Bulldogs, averaging 11.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. He also took over five threes per game, hitting at a 34.6% clip, showing confidence as a perimeter shooter. The experience of being a starter from day one and now playing in two competitive conferences gives Overton a strong foundation heading into his SEC debut with Auburn.
His addition joins a growing list of transfers and commits who are expected to boost Auburn’s depth and talent heading into the 2024–25 season. Bruce Pearl’s transfer portal class now includes Overton, former Mississippi State forward KeShawn Murphy, and former UCF guard Keyshawn Hall. Each brings a unique skill set: Murphy is a versatile stretch-four with size and shooting potential, and Hall is a dynamic playmaker and scorer who can slot into multiple backcourt roles.
Auburn is also bringing in two junior college prospects — Abdul Bashir and Emeka Opurum — as part of this class. Both are considered high-upside players who could develop into key contributors. On top of that, the Tigers already have three commits from the high school class of 2025: Kaden Magwood, Sebastian Williams-Adams, and Simon Walker, giving the program a nice blend of experience and future talent.
One of the biggest decisions still hanging in the air is the status of Tahaad Pettiford. The former five-star recruit declared for the NBA Draft but retains his college eligibility. If he withdraws and returns for his sophomore season, Auburn would gain back a high-ceiling guard with explosive athleticism and scoring ability — a significant boost to a retooled roster.
On the flip side, Auburn recently saw wing Chad Baker-Mazara enter the transfer portal, and JP Pegues has reportedly done the same. Both departures open up minutes and opportunities for newcomers like Overton to make their mark early.
Overall, the addition of Kevin Overton fits Auburn’s recent trend of acquiring physically gifted, versatile guards with experience and upside. Bruce Pearl is reloading his squad with a balanced mix of proven players and developmental talent, setting up the Tigers for another competitive season in the SEC. With more moves likely to come and potential returns like Pettiford still on the table, Auburn’s 2024–25 roster is shaping up to be both deep and dynamic.
