In a shocking late-night development that has sent ripples through the college basketball recruiting world, 5-star prospect Na’eem Offord has officially decommitted from Auburn, delivering a massive blow to Bruce Pearl’s program and its 2025 recruiting class.
The news broke via Offord’s social media late Wednesday evening, just days after reports suggested the prized recruit had been weighing his options amid renewed interest from several blue-blood programs.
“After much thought and prayer, I’ve decided to reopen my recruitment,” Offord posted. “I have nothing but love for Coach Pearl and Auburn University, but I feel it’s best for me to explore all of my opportunities.”
Offord, a top-rated combo guard with elite size and explosiveness, was expected to be a cornerstone of Auburn’s future backcourt. His commitment was celebrated as a major recruiting win for Pearl and his staff, especially given the fierce national competition for the Alabama native.
Now, Auburn finds itself in scramble mode, with its top 2025 recruit back on the market and programs like Kentucky, Alabama, and Kansas already making fresh pushes.
“This is a tough one,” one Auburn assistant reportedly said anonymously. “Na’eem’s a special talent. He knows we’re here for him, but we respect his decision.”
The decommitment also comes at a delicate time, as Auburn looks to rebound from an up-and-down season and reshape its roster through transfers and elite high school talent. Offord was seen as a potential program-changer — a player who could thrive under Pearl’s fast-paced, aggressive style.
Despite the setback, the Tigers remain in the mix to re-land Offord should things circle back, and they still have a strong recruiting foundation heading into the summer.
Still, there’s no denying this late-night bombshell hits hard for the Auburn faithful.
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