In the realm of college basketball, making strategic moves during the off-season can lay the foundation for a team’s success in the forthcoming season. For Bruce Pearl and the coaching staff of Auburn basketball, the aim was to find the final piece to complete their roster for the 2024-25 season. Their pursuit led them to Miles Kelly, former Georgia Tech guard, who recently committed to joining the Auburn Tigers.
Miles Kelly boasts an impressive track record, having served as the leading scorer for the Yellowjackets in the previous season, averaging 13.9 points per game, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists, showcasing his undeniable athletic prowess on the court. Standing at 6’6, his height and skill set bring a valuable dimension to the Auburn roster.
While Kelly’s three-point shooting percentage was 32.1% last season, his performance in the 2022-23 season was even more promising, with a 37.9% shot from deep. With this in mind, there is great potential for his contribution to the team’s performance in the upcoming season, especially in the area of three-point shooting.
The addition of Miles Kelly represents a crucial upgrade in Auburn’s guard play, an area that was identified as needing improvement. The performance of the guards last season contributed to the team’s early exit from the NCAA Tournament. With the arrival of Kelly alongside guards JP Pegues, Tahaad Pettiford, and Denver Jones, the Tigers are poised for a more dynamic and effective backcourt.
As the team looks ahead to the 2024-25 season, the expectations are high. With Johni Broome expected to continue his impressive performance from the previous year, the support and contribution from the guards will be essential to Auburn’s success. The addition of JP Pegues, a transfer, and Tahaad Pettiford, a five-star All-American, bolsters the team’s roster and provides a diverse skill set crucial to the game.
It is anticipated that JP Pegues will take on the role of a facilitator, with Denver Jones also contributing as a point guard. Meanwhile, Tahaad Pettiford and Miles Kelly will likely take up off-ball positions, but are capable of assuming ball-handling responsibilities when necessary. With a diverse and versatile lineup, Auburn is well-positioned for a strong showing in the upcoming season.
Another significant advantage of adding Miles Kelly to the roster is his experience in the ACC, which speaks to his ability to perform at a high level in a competitive conference. His proven track record in a challenging division provides confidence in his ability to transition seamlessly to the SEC.
With the recent roster upgrades, the basketball community is abuzz with the prospect of Auburn emerging as a top contender in the 2024-25 season. The team’s performance is anticipated to be nothing short of exceptional, positioning them as a strong contender for a top-ten ranking in the preseason.
As the college basketball landscape evolves, the strategic recruitment of talented players is crucial to a team’s success. With the addition of Miles Kelly, the Auburn Tigers have taken a significant step towards enhancing their roster and bolstering their chances for an outstanding 2024-25 season.