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Auburn, AL – April 4, 2025
In a landmark moment for college athletics and the ever-evolving world of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) endorsements, Auburn Tigers basketball star Johni Broome has signed a multimillion-dollar contract with EA Sports, sources confirmed late Thursday evening. The deal not only sets a new precedent for collegiate athletes landing gaming endorsements but also cements Broome’s legacy as one of Auburn’s most marketable stars of the modern era.
A Deal Years in the Making
According to industry insiders, EA Sports approached Broome’s representation early in the 2024-2025 season. The interest was mutual. Broome—already a household name in SEC circles—had built a sizable following through on-court dominance, off-court charisma, and a growing social media presence.
The deal will include Broome as a featured playable athlete in EA Sports College Basketball 25, a long-anticipated reboot of the beloved video game franchise. He will also appear in a national ad campaign, streaming promotional content, and exclusive in-game features tied to his likeness, including signature moves, gear, and a virtual career mode.
“This is bigger than basketball,” Broome said in an exclusive statement to Auburn media. “It’s about representing Auburn on a national stage. I’m honored, and I’m ready.”
Johni Broome: From Transfer to Titan
Broome’s rise to stardom has been anything but conventional. After transferring from Morehead State, he quickly established himself as a key piece of Bruce Pearl’s system. Over two seasons, he’s developed into a dominant force in the paint, a defensive nightmare for opponents, and a leader in the locker room.
In the 2024-2025 season alone, Broome averaged 17.6 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game. His performances during the NCAA tournament drew national attention, with scouts and analysts alike praising his poise, footwork, and high basketball IQ.
EA Sports executives cited Broome’s on-court leadership, gameplay versatility, and brand appeal as reasons for his selection. “He’s the full package,” said EA Sports marketing director Carlos Vega. “He resonates with fans, plays like a pro, and carries himself like a champion.”
The NIL Era: What This Deal Means
The landmark agreement represents a seismic shift in college sports. While many athletes have landed apparel, food, or energy drink endorsements, few have broken into the gaming sector—especially at this scale.
Broome’s contract reportedly includes:
- High six-figure base compensation
- Revenue sharing from digital sales of his in-game content
- Performance bonuses tied to real-life milestones
- Access to a co-designed in-game court mode called “The Jungle Takeover”
In addition, Broome will join EA’s College Athlete Advisory Council, working alongside developers to shape future releases and offer player feedback—a first-of-its-kind arrangement.
“This is the evolution of NIL,” said Auburn Athletics Director John Cohen. “Deals like Johni’s show what’s possible when talent meets opportunity in this new era.”
Reactions from the Auburn Community
News of Broome’s EA Sports contract spread like wildfire across Auburn’s campus and online fan communities.
“Broome is HIM. He deserves every bit of this,” wrote one fan on Twitter/X. Another posted a screenshot of a virtual Broome dunk with the caption: “The game just got real.”
Head Coach Bruce Pearl was equally proud. “Johni has earned this. He’s a great player, a better person, and he represents what Auburn basketball is all about. We’re thrilled to see him succeed.”
Fellow teammates were seen congratulating Broome at practice, some joking that they expect their own ratings in the game to get a boost just by association.
EA Sports: Betting Big on College Hoops
EA Sports’ decision to bring back its college basketball franchise after more than a decade of dormancy has been met with massive excitement. With NIL regulations finally allowing athletes to profit off their likeness, the company is investing heavily in marketing and licensing.
Johni Broome is one of several athletes expected to be the face of the new game, but sources suggest his contract is among the largest—if not the largest—in the current rollout.
The game will feature:
- Enhanced player customization
- Real college arenas, chants, and mascots
- A revamped dynasty mode with NIL negotiation
- Career mode featuring Broome as a virtual mentor
The cover athlete for the game has yet to be announced, but Broome is rumored to be among the finalists.
Impact on Recruiting and Auburn’s Brand
Beyond the personal win for Broome, the EA Sports deal is a huge moment for Auburn’s athletic department. As high school stars and transfer targets weigh their options, stories like this serve as powerful recruiting tools.
“This kind of visibility shows recruits that Auburn isn’t just a place to play—it’s a place to build your brand,” said recruiting analyst Marcus Dunlap. “When a player like Broome locks in a national deal, it sends shockwaves across the sport.”
Expect Auburn to double down on its NIL infrastructure, partnering with donors, alumni, and creative agencies to offer athletes robust marketing opportunities in the future.
What’s Next for Johni Broome?
While Broome hasn’t officially declared for the NBA Draft, this deal certainly raises his stock. Scouts have praised his improved mid-range shooting and ability to switch on defense. He’s expected to receive feedback during the draft evaluation process before making a final decision.
Regardless of his next move, Broome is poised to remain in the spotlight. He recently hinted at launching his own merchandise line, and sources say he’s fielding additional offers from sneaker brands and tech companies.
“I just want to keep growing—on the court and off,” Broome said. “This is just the beginning.”
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