Auburn Reacts to Major Johni Broome Announcement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated Apr 5, 2025 3:49 PM ET

The No. 1 seed Auburn Tigers are preparing for a crucial semifinal showdown in the Final Four on Saturday night against the Florida Gators, and star forward Johni Broome is good to go after briefly leaving the team's Elite Eight matchup due to a hyperextended elbow.

Broome has been one of the top players in the nation this season and has been the driving force behind Auburn securing the top overall seed in the 68-team field, which now consists of all four No. 1 seeds.

Although Broome lost the National Player of the Year award to Cooper Flagg, it was announced before Saturday’s game that the former Morehead State transfer has been named the Karl Malone Power Forward of the Year by the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.

Auburn’s response to the news? One word: "Earned."

Earned. pic.twitter.com/PwzPbwAhFw
— Auburn Basketball (@AuburnMBB) April 5, 2025

Many believed Broome was also deserving of the National Player of the Year award, but his remarkable season has certainly etched his name in Auburn’s history. The Tigers are now in the midst of their second-ever Final Four appearance, a testament to Broome’s leadership and performance.

This season, Broome has been a double-double machine offensively and a dominant force defensively. Heading into their matchup with Florida, he’s averaging 18.7 points, 10.9 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 2.4 blocks, while shooting an impressive 51.2% from the field.

In Auburn’s win over Michigan State in the previous round, Broome led the charge with a game-high 25 points, 14 rebounds, and 2 assists. If Auburn is to avenge their earlier loss to the Gators — a 90-81 defeat at home on Feb. 8 — Broome will need to continue his dominant play and lead his team to victory.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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