UPDATED From Auburn to the Association: Johni Broome's NBA Dream Becomes Reality UPDATED

EDITORIAL NOTE: An early version of this report had erroneously placed Broome with the Charlotte Hornets

June 26, 2025 – Brooklyn, NY - After years of grinding in the paint and rewriting record books, Johni Broome has officially made the leap to the NBA. The Auburn standout was selected 35rd overall in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia Seventy Sixers, capping off a remarkable college career and launching the next chapter in his basketball journey.

Though Broome was projected by some analysts as a late first-round pick, his selection early in the second round reflects both his proven production and the questions scouts had about his fit in the modern NBA. Still, for Broome and Auburn fans alike, the moment was a triumph.

"It's a blessing," Broome said in a post-draft interview. "I've worked for this my whole life. I'm ready to bring energy, toughness, and a winning mindset to Charlotte."

A Dominant College Career

Broome's path to the NBA wasn't paved with hype or blue-chip pedigree. A native of Plant City, Florida, he began his college career at Morehead State, where he quickly made a name for himself as a dominant low-post presence. After two standout seasons-including an OVC Defensive Player of the Year award-he transferred to Auburn University, where his game blossomed on a national stage.

During the 2024–25 season, Broome averaged 18.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 2.1 blocks per game, earning First Team All-American honors and leading Auburn to a Final Four appearance. He also took home the Karl Malone Award (given to the nation's top power forward) and the Pete Newell Big Man Award, cementing his status as one of the most decorated big men in college basketball.

Strengths and NBA Fit

At 6-foot-9 and 249 pounds, Broome brings a rugged interior presence to the Seventy-Sixers' frontcourt. He's known for his rebounding instincts, shot-blocking ability, and crafty footwork in the post. His passing out of double teams and willingness to set hard screens make him a natural fit in pick-and-roll-heavy offenses.

Defensively, Broome is a high-IQ anchor who communicates well and rotates with purpose. His 7-foot wingspan allows him to contest shots and protect the rim, even against taller opponents. While he's not an elite vertical athlete, his timing and positioning help him compensate.

Broome could carve out a role as a versatile backup big who brings toughness and maturity to a developing core.

Areas for Growth

Despite his college accolades, Broome's draft stock was tempered by concerns about his shooting range and mobility in space. He shot just 27.8% from three-point range and 58.7% from the free-throw line during his senior season, raising questions about his ability to stretch the floor at the next level.

Additionally, at nearly 23 years old, Broome is considered an "older" prospect in a league that increasingly favors younger players with longer developmental runways. Some scouts also noted his limited vertical explosiveness, which could affect his ability to finish over NBA-length defenders or switch onto quicker guards.

Still, his basketball IQ, work ethic, and track record of improvement suggest he has the tools to adapt and thrive.

Auburn's NBA Pipeline

Broome's selection continues a strong recent tradition of Auburn players making the leap to the NBA. Under head coach Bruce Pearl, the Tigers have produced pros like Jabari Smith Jr., Isaac Okoro, and Chuma Okeke-all of whom have carved out roles in the league.

Pearl praised Broome's development and leadership, calling him "one of the most coachable and consistent players I've ever had."

"Johni made everyone around him better," Pearl said. "He's a winner, and Charlotte is getting a guy who will do whatever it takes to help the team."

What's Next

Broome is expected to join the Seventy Sixers' Summer League roster in Las Vegas next month, where he'll have a chance to showcase his skills against fellow rookies and fringe NBA talent. His performance there could determine whether he earns a guaranteed contract or begins his career on a two-way deal.

Regardless of the path, Broome's journey from overlooked recruit to NBA draft pick is a testament to perseverance, development, and belief.

"I've always bet on myself," he said. "Now I'm ready to prove I belong."