Prior to March Madness, Auburn Announces Major Johni Broome Decision

As March Madness draws closer and teams around the country begin their final preparations for the NCAA Tournament, one of the most talked-about decisions in college basketball has come from Auburn University. In a highly anticipated announcement, Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl revealed that junior forward Johni Broome, one of the team’s most talented and dynamic players, would be declaring for the 2025 NBA Draft. Broome’s decision to leave college basketball early has sent ripples through the Auburn community, and it promises to have significant implications for the Tigers both in the immediate future and moving forward.

Broome’s decision to turn pro has been on the radar for several months, and this announcement has only intensified the excitement and speculation surrounding Auburn’s path in the NCAA Tournament and beyond. While Broome’s decision may be a loss for Auburn in the short term, it’s also a clear indication of the kind of impact he has had on the program and the broader college basketball landscape.

This decision is part of a growing trend in college basketball, where talented players often leave before their senior season to pursue opportunities in the NBA, and Broome’s announcement provides a fascinating narrative about his journey, the impact on Auburn basketball, and the possible future paths he could take.

Johni Broome’s Rise to Stardom

When Johni Broome transferred to Auburn from Morehead State in 2023, expectations were high. After two standout seasons in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC), Broome entered the SEC with a reputation as one of the best all-around big men in college basketball. At Morehead State, Broome was an absolute force on both ends of the floor, averaging over 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game. His performances earned him OVC Player of the Year honors, and he quickly became a highly sought-after transfer prospect.

Broome’s decision to transfer to Auburn was seen as a significant one, as it gave him the opportunity to play in one of the premier conferences in college basketball. It also provided him with the chance to showcase his skills on a larger stage and refine his game under the guidance of Bruce Pearl, a coach known for developing elite talent. The move paid immediate dividends, as Broome’s performance at Auburn exceeded even the highest expectations.

In his two seasons with Auburn, Broome developed into one of the most versatile and impactful players in the SEC. As a 6-foot-10 forward with the ability to score from all areas of the floor, rebound at an elite level, and block shots, he became the centerpiece of Auburn’s lineup. His ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting, combined with his excellent finishing around the rim, made him a constant matchup problem for opposing defenses.

Throughout the 2024-2025 season, Broome emerged as one of the Tigers’ most reliable players, helping the team maintain a position near the top of the SEC standings. He averaged 18.5 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game, solidifying himself as one of the premier players in the conference. His presence on the floor allowed Auburn to play an up-tempo style while maintaining a strong defensive identity, and he was a major reason why the Tigers were a top-20 team in the nation.

Broome’s offensive versatility was complemented by his defensive tenacity. As one of the best shot blockers in the SEC, Broome was a constant deterrent in the paint, altering shots and forcing turnovers. His ability to defend multiple positions was also a key asset, allowing Auburn to switch on screens and remain a highly mobile defensive team.

Broome’s all-around game and consistency made him an early candidate for the NBA Draft, and as the season wore on, it became increasingly clear that his time in college basketball was coming to a close.

The Impact of Broome’s Departure

The announcement that Broome would be declaring for the NBA Draft comes at a critical time for Auburn, as the Tigers prepare for the 2025 NCAA Tournament. Broome’s decision leaves a significant gap in Auburn’s lineup, as he has been the team’s most consistent and dynamic player for the past two seasons. His departure raises several important questions for both the team and the future of Auburn basketball.

From a basketball standpoint, Broome’s absence will force Auburn to rely more heavily on the players who have already stepped up this season. Guards Wendell Green Jr. and Allen Flanigan, as well as forward Jaylin Williams, will have to take on larger roles for the Tigers in the tournament. Green, a seasoned point guard, has been instrumental in Auburn’s offensive schemes, and his leadership will be critical as the team heads into the postseason. Flanigan, a senior forward, has the experience and versatility to help fill some of the scoring and leadership void left by Broome. Williams, an emerging star, will also need to rise to the occasion and provide Auburn with a strong presence in the frontcourt.

However, Broome’s departure also places pressure on head coach Bruce Pearl to adjust his game plan and find ways to maintain Auburn’s level of success without their star player. Auburn has the talent to compete in March Madness, but Broome’s absence could affect their defensive and rebounding presence, as well as their ability to generate scoring from the inside. Pearl, known for his adaptability, will likely find ways to overcome these challenges, but the loss of Broome is undeniable.

Broome’s impact on Auburn’s program extends far beyond his on-court abilities. His decision to leave for the NBA is a bittersweet moment for Auburn fans, as they recognize the significance of his contributions to the team over the past two seasons. Broome has been one of the primary reasons why Auburn has been able to remain a competitive force in the SEC, and his departure represents the end of a remarkable chapter in Auburn basketball.

For the Tigers, the challenge moving forward will be to replace Broome’s production while maintaining the same level of competitiveness that has made them a fixture in the upper echelon of college basketball. Broome’s decision could also have a ripple effect on future recruiting, as prospects will look to see how Auburn adapts in his absence and whether the program can continue its trajectory of success.

Broome’s Future in the NBA

With his decision to declare for the NBA Draft, Johni Broome now faces a crucial next step in his basketball journey. Broome is widely regarded as one of the top big men available in the 2025 NBA Draft, and many analysts project him as a potential first-round pick. His combination of size, skill, and athleticism makes him an attractive prospect for NBA teams in need of a versatile forward who can contribute on both ends of the floor.

While Broome’s decision to leave Auburn early might have come as a surprise to some, it is a natural progression for a player of his talent. His performances in the SEC and on the national stage have only heightened his draft stock, and Broome has the potential to make an immediate impact in the NBA. His ability to shoot from the perimeter, combined with his shot-blocking prowess and rebounding skills, gives him a unique skill set that could fit well into the modern NBA game.

Several NBA teams could look to select Broome in the upcoming draft. Teams that are in need of a skilled and versatile forward with defensive abilities will likely be high on Broome. His NBA future appears bright, and the potential for a successful pro career is there if he continues to develop his game and refine his skills in the professional ranks.

The Auburn Legacy

Broome’s departure marks the conclusion of one of the most successful individual careers in recent Auburn basketball history. While his time at Auburn was short, his impact on the program has been nothing short of transformative. His presence on the floor helped elevate Auburn to a new level of national relevance, and his decision to declare for the NBA Draft is a reflection of his growth as a player and a person.

For Auburn, Broome’s decision is also a reminder of the program’s continued upward trajectory under head coach Bruce Pearl. The Tigers have become a prominent destination for talented players looking to showcase their skills on the biggest stage, and Broome’s success is a testament to the development opportunities that Auburn provides. As Pearl continues to recruit elite talent and build a competitive roster, Auburn’s future remains bright, even as they navigate the departure of one of their stars.

As Broome prepares for the next chapter in his career, Auburn fans will reflect on his time with the Tigers with pride and gratitude. His decision to declare for the NBA Draft is not just a personal accomplishment, but a reflection of the high standard that Auburn basketball has set in recent years. While Broome’s absence will be felt, Auburn will continue to be a program that competes at the highest level in college basketball, with or without their star player.

Looking Ahead to March Madness

As Auburn heads into March Madness, they face the challenge of competing at the highest level without Johni Broome. While Broome’s decision is a major development, the Tigers still possess the talent and coaching to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. With players like Wendell Green Jr., Allen Flanigan, and Jaylin Williams stepping up, Auburn remains a formidable opponent, and the excitement around the team’s prospects for the tournament is only growing. For the Tigers, it’s not just about replacing Broome’s production, but about continuing the legacy of excellence that he helped build at Auburn.