IT’S DONE: Auburn Tigers Beat Out Hoosiers, Kentucky to Land High-Scoring Standout Lamar Wilkerson
In a major recruiting coup that sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, the Auburn Tigers have officially landed the commitment of Lamar Wilkerson, one of the most electric scorers in the 2025 recruiting class. After months of speculation and a tight race between powerhouse programs, Wilkerson made his decision moments ago, choosing Bruce Pearl’s Auburn squad over the Indiana Hoosiers and Kentucky Wildcats.
A 6-foot-6 wing with a silky smooth shooting stroke and explosive athleticism, Wilkerson has been on the radar of top programs nationwide since his breakout junior year. Hailing from Little Rock, Arkansas, he averaged 26.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game last season, drawing comparisons to NBA scoring wings with his blend of size, skill, and confidence.
Wilkerson’s final three came down to Auburn, Indiana, and Kentucky—three storied programs with strong recent histories of player development and NCAA Tournament success. In the end, the culture, coaching staff, and player-first atmosphere in Auburn made the difference.
“This was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made,” Wilkerson said in a live-streamed announcement. “All three programs showed love, but when I visited Auburn, it just felt like home. Coach Pearl and his staff laid out a plan for me—on and off the court—that I couldn’t ignore. I’m ready to be a Tiger.”
The commitment is a massive win for Bruce Pearl and the Tigers, who continue to build momentum on the recruiting trail. Auburn has been a consistent contender in the SEC in recent years and made a Final Four run in 2019. Adding Wilkerson to the fold further solidifies the Tigers as a program capable of landing elite talent year in and year out.
“Lamar is a game-changer,” Pearl said in a statement shortly after the announcement. “He’s a dynamic scorer, a relentless competitor, and above all, he’s got the kind of character and work ethic we value in our program. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the Auburn family.”
Wilkerson’s decision is a tough blow for both Indiana and Kentucky, who were deeply invested in his recruitment. The Hoosiers were seen as an early leader, while Kentucky made a late push with hopes of pairing him alongside other five-star talent. However, Auburn’s persistence and vision ultimately swayed the rising star.
National recruiting analysts quickly took to social media to react, with many calling Wilkerson’s commitment a potential turning point for Auburn’s 2025 class.
“This could be the piece that sets Auburn up for a deep run in 2026,” said ESPN’s Paul Biancardi. “Wilkerson’s ability to create his own shot, defend multiple positions, and lead on and off the floor makes him a day-one impact player.”
With Wilkerson now officially in orange and blue, Auburn’s future looks even brighter. And for fans of the Tigers, today marks a statement of intent: Auburn isn’t just in the conversation—they’re winning it.
