Auburn landing Kevin Overton for the 2026–27 season is a huge win for head coach Steven Pearl, GM Brian Kloman, and the entire staff and his return might help secure another major addition.
According to Nathan King of Auburn Undercover, “One early name to watch is San Jose State transfer Colby Garland. Sources tell Auburn Undercover that Garland will have a virtual meeting with Steven Pearl and the Tigers’ staff later this week. Overton’s return could play a major role in Auburn’s recruitment of Garland, as the two were teammates at Drake during the 2023–24 season.”
Garland is coming off an explosive season with the San Jose State Spartans, averaging over 20 points per game on an impressive 49/37/84 shooting line. Despite SJSU finishing 9–24 second-worst in the Mountain West, ahead of only the Air Force Falcons — his production speaks for itself.
His familiarity with Overton matters, especially after Overton formerly of Texas Tech and Drake — broke out during Auburn’s NIT run and helped deliver the program’s first-ever postseason championship, something the Alabama Crimson Tide has yet to accomplish.
Tahaad Pettiford’s Future Now in Question
Could Garland’s potential arrival signal the end of Tahaad Pettiford’s time at Auburn? Predictions have varied widely. Pettiford paired well with Overton, but carrying three undersized guards raises questions about long-term roster balance.
Still, Steven Pearl has inherited his father’s knack for developing strong guard play, and with Kaden Magwood already in the transfer portal, another backcourt piece wouldn’t hurt. The real pressing need, though, is a big man especially after Filip Jovic also hit the portal.
Kloman faces a packed first offseason as GM. Time will tell whether Pettiford remains in the plan, and if not, whether Garland becomes his successor.
