Auburn Basketball Has Johni Broome, But Vanderbilt Win Shows There’s More to Tigers
The Auburn Tigers have long been a force in college basketball, and this season, they’ve lived up to that reputation. A significant part of their success can be attributed to Johni Broome, the team’s standout player. The 6-foot-10 forward has been a dominating presence on both ends of the floor, a player capable of changing the game with his scoring, rebounding, and defense. However, Auburn’s 84-77 victory over Vanderbilt in early February was a resounding reminder that while Broome is a key cog in the Tigers’ machinery, the team’s success cannot be attributed to him alone. It’s the collective effort, depth, and chemistry that has made Auburn one of the most formidable teams in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
Johni Broome: The Heart and Soul of Auburn
There’s no denying that Johni Broome is the centerpiece of this Auburn squad. After transferring from Morehead State, Broome has seamlessly fit into the Tigers’ system. His ability to stretch the floor, protect the rim, and dominate on both sides of the court has made him one of the best players in the SEC.
Through his dynamic play, Broome has shown that he’s not just a scorer but a complete player. He’s the type of player that any team would want in March—someone who can take over games when necessary. His versatility gives Auburn the ability to run multiple offensive sets, and his rim protection provides a safety net for the Tigers’ defense.
Broome’s statistics are a testament to his talent. Averaging double digits in points and rebounds, along with a block per game, he has certainly been the team’s most consistent player. But as much as Broome is the face of Auburn basketball this season, the team’s victory over Vanderbilt underscored the importance of the collective effort.
The Vanderbilt Win: A Glimpse Into Auburn’s Depth
While Broome’s contributions were evident in Auburn’s win over Vanderbilt, it was clear that the Tigers’ victory was not just the result of one player’s brilliance. Auburn had a solid team effort that showcased the depth of talent on its roster. The game against Vanderbilt highlighted how multiple players can step up, especially when needed most.
Auburn started strong, thanks to stellar performances from players like Wendell Green Jr., Allen Flanigan, and Chris Moore. Green, the Tigers’ point guard, has been a steady floor leader throughout the season. His ability to control the tempo of the game and make crucial decisions in clutch moments was pivotal against Vanderbilt. He also contributed with key assists, helping Auburn maintain offensive flow when it mattered.
Flanigan, a senior forward, had his best game of the season against Vanderbilt, displaying his scoring ability and playing with a level of confidence that has often eluded him throughout the year. Flanigan’s performance was a testament to the fact that Auburn’s strength doesn’t just come from Broome but from veteran players like him, who know what it takes to perform in big games.
Meanwhile, Moore has quietly become one of Auburn’s most reliable defenders and rebounders. While his offensive contributions might not always be as noticeable, his presence on the defensive end, particularly in key moments, helps to make Auburn’s defense one of the toughest in the SEC. In the Vanderbilt game, Moore was instrumental in preventing easy buckets and was crucial in securing Auburn’s victory on the boards.
This type of performance from role players and veterans is what has made Auburn so successful in recent seasons. The team doesn’t rely on one player to carry them every game; instead, they rely on the collective contributions of their deep and talented roster.
The Importance of Bench Contributions
Another factor that stands out about the Tigers is their ability to rely on their bench. Auburn’s depth allows Coach Bruce Pearl to keep fresh legs on the court, which is vital in the high-paced, demanding SEC. In their win over Vanderbilt, Auburn’s bench played a significant role, providing an offensive spark when the starters needed a breather.
One player who made an impact off the bench was freshman Yohan Traore. The 6-foot-10 forward has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season, and against Vanderbilt, he came up big with important minutes, scoring, rebounding, and defending. While he’s not yet as polished as Broome, Traore’s potential adds another layer of depth to Auburn’s roster.
Furthermore, players like Zep Jasper, who provides leadership and defensive intensity, and Dylan Cardwell, who is a relentless force in the paint, contribute in ways that don’t always show up in the box score. It’s these unheralded contributions that make Auburn such a dangerous team. The Tigers don’t rely solely on Broome’s scoring; they have a roster of players who can step up when needed.
The Coaching of Bruce Pearl: A Key to Success
Behind Auburn’s on-court success is one of the best coaches in college basketball, Bruce Pearl. Pearl, who has revitalized the Auburn basketball program since taking over in 2014, has built a culture of toughness, resilience, and unselfishness. His ability to mold players into a cohesive unit is one of the reasons why the Tigers are consistently among the top teams in the SEC.
Pearl’s coaching style is based on fast-paced offense, aggressive defense, and player development. Under his leadership, Auburn has become a consistent contender in the SEC, and his impact on the team has been immeasurable. What stands out most about Pearl’s coaching is his ability to get the best out of his players, regardless of their role.
Against Vanderbilt, Pearl’s ability to adjust and find the right matchups in critical moments was evident. Whether it was choosing to go small with a quicker lineup or opting for a more traditional, physical approach in the post, Pearl’s game plans often leave opponents guessing. His trust in his bench and his willingness to give different players opportunities to shine only adds to the team’s versatility.
The SEC Landscape: Auburn’s Position in the Conference
As the SEC continues to become one of the toughest conferences in college basketball, Auburn’s win over Vanderbilt was an important reminder of how deep the Tigers are. While teams like Kentucky, Alabama, and Tennessee have received plenty of attention, Auburn has quietly maintained its place at the top of the conference standings.
Auburn’s depth, leadership, and experience make them a formidable opponent in the SEC tournament and beyond. The Tigers’ victory over Vanderbilt was not just a testament to Broome’s brilliance but a reminder that Auburn’s strength lies in its team-oriented approach. In the ultra-competitive SEC, where every game is a battle, having a roster full of capable players can make the difference between winning and losing.
Looking Ahead: Auburn’s Championship Aspirations
As Auburn moves through the remainder of the season, the Tigers are firmly in the conversation for a high seed in the NCAA Tournament. With Broome leading the way, but with a supporting cast that is equally capable of stepping up, Auburn’s championship aspirations remain very much alive. The team has the talent, coaching, and depth to make a deep run in March, and the Vanderbilt win was just another example of why they should not be overlooked.
Auburn’s chances of making a deep tournament run are significantly strengthened by the balance they have across their roster. Broome is undoubtedly one of the best players in college basketball, but the Tigers’ overall success relies on much more than just him. With key contributions from players like Green, Flanigan, Moore, and others, Auburn has built a team that can win in a variety of ways.
As March approaches, Auburn will continue to be a team to watch. Their combination of elite talent, depth, and experienced coaching positions them well to compete for an SEC title and make a strong push in the NCAA Tournament. While Johni Broome may be the face of Auburn basketball, the victory over Vanderbilt was a clear reminder that there’s much more to this Tigers team than just one star.