Johni Broome’s basketball career has been nothing short of extraordinary—a compelling odyssey that has now culminated in his selection by the Philadelphia 76ers with the 35th overall pick in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft. It’s a choice loaded with significance: for Broome, a testament to his resilience and growth; for the Sixers, a reflection of their commitment to culture and intelligent roster construction; and for the NBA, a reminder that the road to stardom sometimes runs through college maturity and relentless determination.
Johni Broome’s initial ascent began at Morehead State, where he turned heads as a freshman, averaging 13.8 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, earning Ohio Valley Conference Freshman of the Year honors. It was here that he transformed from an overlooked recruit into a force. In his sophomore season, he continued ascending, dropping 16.8 points, hauling in 10.5 rebounds, and blocking 3.9 shots per game—earning OVC Defensive Player of the Year and First-Team All-OVC recognition .
That early development laid the groundwork: he wasn’t just dominant; he was evolving. Rebounding, rim protection, and efficient scoring—they were all in his toolkit.
When Broome transferred to Auburn in April 2022, questions loomed: could he match that level in the SEC? The answer was a resounding “yes.” Across three seasons at Auburn, the Florida native grew into a premier collegiate talent. By his senior season (2024–25), he locked up SEC Player of the Year, SPORTING NEWS Player of the Year, Consensus First-Team All-American honors, the Pete Newell Big Man Award, and the Karl Malone Award . His impact tracked across the stat sheet—18.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 2.1 blocks, and solid shooting metrics .
But beyond numbers, Broome’s presence galvanized Auburn. He averaged nearly four offensive rebounds a game and powered the program to the Final Four—the first such appearance since Chuck Person’s era . Auburn even enjoyed eight weeks at No. 1 in the AP poll—an unprecedented run in program history .
Head coach Bruce Pearl hailed Broome as “the steal of the second round,” adding that at every level he had “exceeded expectations.” It’s a sign of just how far he’d come—from HBCU underdog to SEC myth
On the court, Broome enters the NBA as a proven commodity. At nearly 6′10″ with a 7-foot wingspan and weighing close to 250 pounds, he’s ideally built for the frontcourt (. His rebounding instincts, post-up prowess, rim protection, and interior scoring are his strongest assets .
Where he really impresses is in the less glamorous but vital areas—offensive glass, pick-and-roll, pick-and-pop, defensive IQ, communication, and mid-range finishing. His synergy grades illustrate a player who consistently tucks in the dirty work, finishing at the rim at nearly 66% and ranking in the 81st percentile for layups and dunks . Those contributions don’t show up in flashy highlight packs, but they build winning teams.
It’s hardly a flawless profile. Broome’s athleticism is operational—not explosive. At the combine, he posted a max vertical of 28 inches (near the bottom of the class) and a sluggish shuttle time of 3.23 seconds . His three-point shooting is erratic: career marks hover around 30–35%, with a dip to 27.8% in his final season . While not a lockdown defender, his instincts and effort are strong, though lateral quickness and stretching the floor remain growth opportunities.
Philadelphia’s front office, led by Daryl Morey, is building beyond superstar Joel Embiid. Broome’s selection—following their top-3 pick VJ Edgecombe—signals a strategy: inject culture, accountability, and proven competitiveness into the roster . Broome brings maturity—23 years old, five years of college experience, and a body of work that will translate into NBA minutes quickly .
His personality aligns with the locker room vibe: a high-character competitor who leads and laughs in equal measure . Broome describes himself as outgoing off the court, fiery on it—a blend the Sixers covet.
Watching Broome project to NBA backup big platforms comparisons to proven role-players—Jaylin Williams, Taj Gibson, Daniel Theis, Kevon Looney. Some even suggest he could anchor a frontcourt like Looney if the jumper comes around . Scouting insiders noted: “If the 3‑ball can keep improving there’s some real upside. Even if it doesn’t develop, he can be a Kevon Looney-type,” underscoring the value of his baseline contributions .
Broome’s next steps will unfold at NBA Summer League and training camp. He’ll enter with size, skill, and savviness—but also a mission: show he can dig out on defense, hit the glass, and become more reliable from deep. That’s the final mark that separates a high-level bench piece from a rotation regular.
Philadelphia’s roster offers breathing room: as Yabusele’s future remains uncertain, Broome stands a chance to earn time at PF/C. With Embiid and Adem Bona anchoring the center, Broome can carve out a role as the next man up—rebounding, defending, and bringing energy.
Broome’s story is the antithesis of the one-and-done high school star. He played five seasons in college, matured in the OVC and SEC, and built a resume of performance, leadership, and poise. Auburn fans debate whether his jersey deserves a statue—it’s that kind of legacy . For him, that recognition comes with humility: he carries a chip on his shoulder, born from being overlooked—coined “the anti‑hero” in the NCAA Tournament .
Tonight, the Sixers invested in his narrative—the finished product, ready to play.
From Auburn hardwood glory to NBA bright lights, Johni Broome’s draft night was the apex of a deliberate rise. Now begins the ascent into a NBA career where patience, polish, and physicality will define his path.
Will he become a rotational stalwart, a key glue player, a long-term Sixer? Early indicators are promising. He brings the measurable production, the intangible championship mindset, and the unrelenting work ethic—all valuable capital in a league that prizes winning value and character beyond raw athleticism.
Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: Philadelphia didn’t just draft a big man; they drafted a winner. In a league where stories of grit and steady evolution are often overlooked in favor of flash, Broome stands out. From Auburn to the Big Stage, his journey is just beginning—and the NBA’s most promising new wave of players is richer with his addition.
In selecting Broome, the Sixers reminded the league of a timeless truth: sometimes the most impactful stars arrive quietly, shaped by nights in college arenas, not just summer camps. Broome’s story—rooted in resilience, work ethic, and consistent production—embodies a modern archetype: the mature veteran, ready to contribute from day one and potentially grow into so much more. The Big Stage awaits.
