**Auburn Forward Johni Broome and Alabama Guard Mark Sears Earn First-Team Consensus All-American Recognition for Their Play During the 2023-24 Season**
The 2023-24 college basketball season was one for the record books, with standout performances from players across the nation. Among the brightest stars were Auburn forward Johni Broome and Alabama guard Mark Sears, whose exceptional play earned them first-team Consensus All-American honors. This prestigious recognition, awarded to the nation’s top players as determined by a combination of major selectors, solidified their places among college basketball’s elite. Both players not only led their respective teams to impressive seasons but also showcased the depth of talent in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), further cementing the league’s reputation as one of the toughest in the country.
Johni Broome, the 6’10” powerhouse from Plant City, Florida, was the heart and soul of Auburn’s success this season. After transferring from Morehead State, where he was a two-time Ohio Valley Conference Defensive Player of the Year, Broome quickly established himself as one of the most impactful players in the SEC. His sophomore season at Auburn saw him take another leap, evolving into a complete two-way star capable of dominating on both ends of the floor.
Broome’s statistics were nothing short of remarkable. He averaged 16.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game while shooting an efficient 56% from the field. His ability to score in the post, stretch the floor with a developing mid-range game, and protect the rim made him a nightmare for opposing teams. Beyond the numbers, Broome’s leadership and intensity set the tone for an Auburn squad that competed at the highest level, finishing near the top of the SEC standings and making a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
What truly set Broome apart was his consistency in big games. Whether it was a double-double against rival Alabama, a dominant defensive performance against Kentucky, or a clutch scoring outburst in March, he proved time and again that he belonged among the nation’s best. His recognition as a first-team Consensus All-American was a testament to his relentless work ethic and his ability to elevate his game when it mattered most.
While Broome anchored Auburn’s frontcourt, Alabama’s backcourt was led by the dynamic Mark Sears, whose electrifying play earned him a spot alongside Broome as a first-team Consensus All-American. The 6’1” guard from Muscle Shoals, Alabama, began his career at Ohio University before transferring to the Crimson Tide, where he blossomed into one of the most explosive scorers in college basketball.
Sears was the engine of Alabama’s high-octane offense, averaging 21.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game while shooting an impressive 43% from three-point range. His ability to score at all three levels—attacking the rim, pulling up from mid-range, and draining deep threes—made him nearly unguardable. Sears also displayed remarkable clutch gene, hitting big shots in critical moments, including a 35-point outburst in a marquee win over a top-ranked opponent.
Beyond his scoring, Sears was a floor general who elevated his teammates. His playmaking and decision-making in Alabama’s fast-paced system were crucial to the Tide’s success, helping them secure a high seed in the NCAA Tournament. Defensively, he was no slouch either, using his quickness and instincts to disrupt opposing guards. His all-around game and leadership were instrumental in Alabama’s status as one of the nation’s most dangerous teams.
Being named a Consensus All-American is one of the highest individual honors in college basketball. To earn the distinction, a player must be selected to the first team by a majority of the recognized All-American teams, including the Associated Press (AP), Sporting News, USBWA, and the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC). Both Broome and Sears met this criteria, joining an exclusive group of players who have been recognized as the best in the country.
For Auburn and Alabama, having two players earn this honor in the same season speaks volumes about the strength of basketball in the state of Alabama and the SEC as a whole. The conference has long been known for its football dominance, but in recent years, it has emerged as a basketball powerhouse, producing NBA talent and national championship contenders. Broome and Sears exemplify the high-level talent that has made the SEC one of the most competitive leagues in college hoops.
For Johni Broome and Mark Sears, their Consensus All-American selections are not just a reflection of their outstanding seasons but also a springboard for their future careers. Both players have decisions to make regarding their next steps—whether to return to school for another year or declare for the NBA Draft.
Broome, with his combination of size, skill, and defensive prowess, has drawn interest from NBA scouts as a potential stretch big man. His ability to protect the rim and score efficiently makes him an intriguing prospect, and another year of development could further boost his stock.
Sears, meanwhile, has the scoring ability and playmaking skills that translate well to the next level. While his size may raise questions among some scouts, his shooting, quickness, and basketball IQ make him a compelling option for teams in need of a dynamic guard.
Regardless of their decisions, both players have already cemented their legacies in college basketball. They have given their schools unforgettable moments, inspired future recruits, and proven that hard work and dedication can lead to the highest individual accolades.
The 2023-24 season will be remembered as the year Johni Broome and Mark Sears took college basketball by storm. Their first-team Consensus All-American honors were well-deserved recognitions of their incredible contributions to their teams and the sport as a whole. Broome’s dominance in the paint and Sears’ explosive scoring showcased the best of what the SEC has to offer, further elevating the conference’s national profile.
As both players weigh their futures, one thing is certain: they have left an indelible mark on their programs and college basketball history. Whether they return for another season or take their talents to the professional ranks, their achievements this year will be celebrated for years to come. For Auburn and Alabama fans, seeing two of their own reach such heights is a point of immense pride—and a reminder of just how special this season was.
