Auburn Star Johni Broome Captured in 2025 NBA Draft After Dominant Season; Cementing His Legacy and Excellence
Auburn’s Johni Broome Captured by 76ers with 35th Overall Pick After Historic College Run
Brooklyn, NY — On a thrilling closing night of the NBA Draft at Barclays Center, Auburn’s senior forward Johni Broome heard his name called by the Philadelphia 76ers as the 35th overall pick, marking a monumental moment in his basketball journey .
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From Small Town to Second-Round Stardom
Broome’s path began at Morehead State, where he earned OVC Freshman of the Year in 2021 and Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 . His move to Auburn in 2022 set the stage for a breakout career under Bruce Pearl’s guidance.
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A Season for the Ages
In his final collegiate year, Broome averaged 18.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 2.1 blocks per game, guiding the Tigers to the Final Four . His accolades included:
**Sporting News National Player of the Year (2025)**
SEC Player of the Year & SEC Tournament MVP
Consensus First-Team All-American
Karl Malone Award for the nation’s top power forward
Broome also became the first Division I player ever to amass 2,500+ points, 1,500+ rebounds, and 400+ blocks in his career .
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Why the 76ers Believe in Him
Philadelphia, with its eye on experienced and mature players, saw Broome as an immediate contributor. Listed at 6’10″ with a 7-foot wingspan and roughly 240 lbs, he brings interior scoring, rim protection, and high basketball IQ .
While some scouts flagged his age and limited athleticism, a popular Reddit takeaway praised his mental sharpness and playmaking:
> “Great player in the paint… has good skill and basketball IQ… Can be dangerous passing out of the paint” .
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Auburn’s Roar of Glee
Auburn’s program and fans erupted with pride. Head coach Bruce Pearl hailed Broome as potentially “the best player in Auburn history,” highlighting his coachability and competitive spirit . Social media buzzed: “Big time! Johni is heading to the City of Brotherly Love!” .
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What’s Next: A Pro Future in Philly
Joined by No. 3 pick VJ Edgecombe, Broome will join a 76ers rookie class that looks to bring toughness and two-way impact . Broome described the moment as “surreal” — proof of a dream coming true .
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Watch the Pick Moment
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Final Take
Johni Broome’s selection continues Auburn’s recent draft success, following in the footsteps of Jabari Smith and Walker Kessler. His extraordinary college achievements and all-around game suggest he could quickly become a key rotation piece in Philadelphia. For the Tigers, it’s another celebration of a legacy—and there’s every reason to believe Broome is just getting started.