In a thrilling moment that capped years of perseverance, grit, and transformation, Auburn Tigers’ star Johni Broome saw his NBA dreams come true when he was selected in the second round of the NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. While his name may not have headlined early mock drafts, Broome’s rise has been nothing short of inspirational, and his selection by one of the NBA’s most storied franchises is the reward of relentless hard work, high-level production, and sheer will.
Broome’s path to the NBA is emblematic of the modern basketball journey—one not always defined by immediate recognition or flashy high school rankings, but by steady development, transfer portal savvy, and maximizing every opportunity. Starting his collegiate career at Morehead State, Broome made an immediate impact and showed signs of the versatile big man he would become. Dominating in the Ohio Valley Conference, he quickly drew national attention and made the bold decision to transfer to Auburn, stepping up to the elite Southeastern Conference and proving he belonged among the nation’s best.
At Auburn, Broome became a cornerstone for head coach Bruce Pearl, blending defensive presence with evolving offensive polish. He earned All-SEC honors, led the Tigers in multiple statistical categories, and gained a reputation as one of the most consistent big men in the country. Despite going somewhat under the radar in mainstream draft discussions, Broome continued to rise on team draft boards due to his high basketball IQ, rim protection, improved shooting, and undeniable leadership qualities.
Philadelphia’s selection of Broome in the second round speaks volumes about the direction the 76ers may be taking. With superstar Joel Embiid entrenched as the franchise centerpiece, the front office appears keen on bolstering its frontcourt depth and securing long-term value. Broome’s skill set complements the 76ers’ needs—a mobile big who can guard multiple positions, finish around the rim, stretch the floor with a reliable mid-range jumper, and bring a relentless motor off the bench.
What makes Broome’s story even more compelling is his consistent improvement over the years. At Morehead State, he was a dominant post presence but limited in range. At Auburn, he worked tirelessly to expand his game, improving his footwork, developing a soft shooting touch from beyond the arc, and showcasing the ability to defend in space. His increased lateral quickness and defensive timing allowed him to become a shot-blocking force, and his basketball instincts helped him disrupt passing lanes and secure key rebounds in crunch time.
Analysts were quick to commend the pick for its value. Many view Broome as a second-round steal—a player with first-round talent and second-round humility. ESPN draft expert Jonathan Givony noted, “Broome’s growth arc is one of the best in this draft class. He brings toughness, production, and a hunger to prove himself at the next level. He’s going to make a rotation sooner than people think.” Others praised his maturity and leadership, suggesting that his presence in the locker room will have a positive ripple effect.
Fans in Philadelphia, known for their passion and intensity, have already begun buzzing about the addition. Many see Broome as the kind of high-character player who will thrive in the city’s blue-collar culture. His story resonates with the city’s ethos—underdog grit, work ethic, and resilience. While he may not command immediate headlines like a lottery pick, he’s exactly the type of player who earns fans’ respect with sweat, hustle, and unselfish play.
For Broome, the draft selection marks both a culmination and a new beginning. “This means everything to me,” Broome said shortly after hearing his name called. “All the early mornings, all the long nights, all the people who believed in me—I’m grateful. But this is just the start. I want to come in, work, learn from the veterans, and be the best version of myself. I’m ready to get to Philly and go to work.”
Broome’s journey also represents the broader trend of seasoned college players making a serious impact in the NBA. In recent years, more front offices have come to appreciate players who spend multiple years in college, refine their game, and enter the league more prepared mentally and physically. Broome fits that mold perfectly. He’s a player who’s already faced adversity, adjusted to new systems, and performed under the pressure of high-stakes college basketball.
It’s also worth noting Broome’s deep roots in leadership. At Auburn, he wasn’t just a statistical leader—he was the emotional heartbeat of the team. Teammates often credited him with setting the tone in practices and keeping spirits high during rough stretches. That leadership won’t go unnoticed in an NBA locker room, especially one as competitive as Philadelphia’s.
On the court, Broome gives the 76ers a versatile defensive anchor who can guard pick-and-rolls, rotate smartly, and finish plays on both ends. Offensively, he’s not a high-volume scorer, but he’s efficient and understands spacing. He can screen, roll, and pop. He’s shown flashes of a face-up game, and with NBA-level coaching, there’s optimism he can become even more dynamic as a scoring threat.
The fit with the 76ers also provides a valuable opportunity for Broome to learn behind one of the best centers in the game. Joel Embiid, known for his dominance and wide-ranging skill set, will be a crucial mentor. Watching how Embiid prepares, trains, and approaches each game will be an invaluable education for Broome. If he can absorb even a fraction of that expertise, his development trajectory could be accelerated.
Broome’s story is also a win for Bruce Pearl and the Auburn program. It adds another success to the growing list of Tigers finding their way to the NBA, proving that Auburn is not just a college powerhouse, but also a breeding ground for professional talent. Pearl called Broome’s selection a “tremendous moment for a tremendous young man,” and added, “Johni has earned every bit of this. He’s a warrior, a leader, and a winner. Philly’s getting a guy who will never stop working.”
Looking ahead, the path isn’t guaranteed—no second-round pick’s is. But Johni Broome has defied odds at every level. He wasn’t a five-star high school recruit. He didn’t start his college career in a Power Five program. He didn’t make headlines with flashy mixtapes or viral dunks. What he did do, consistently, was produce, lead, and improve. Those are the qualities that translate—quietly, effectively, and sustainably—to the highest level of basketball.
In a league that values star power but runs on depth and consistency, Broome may end up being one of the surprise contributors of his draft class. Philadelphia has given him the platform. Now, it’s up to him to seize the moment.
The NBA Draft always delivers its share of surprises, feel-good moments, and inspiring narratives. Johni Broome’s name being called on draft night was one of the purest. A young man from Plant City, Florida, who forged his path through discipline, faith, and perseverance, is now officially a professional basketball player. The 76ers saw what many at Auburn already knew—this is a player who makes everyone around him better.
Now, under the bright lights of the NBA, Johni Broome is ready to show the world just how far determination and hard work can take you.
