‘Charles Barkley’s Got Some Competition’: Is Johni Broome Now Auburn’s Greatest Basketball Player Ever?
Auburn University’s basketball program has long been a breeding ground for talent, producing NBA stars and legendary college players like Charles Barkley, Chris Morris, and Chris Morris. However, the program’s most recent star, Johni Broome, has been making waves so significant that some are beginning to ask: Is he now Auburn’s greatest basketball player ever?
Broome, a transfer from Morehead State, has quickly solidified himself as one of the most dominant players in the SEC, and his impact on Auburn basketball has been undeniable. Standing at 6’10”, Broome brings a rare combination of size, skill, and athleticism that allows him to dominate on both ends of the floor. His scoring, rebounding, shot-blocking, and leadership have led many to question whether the program’s legendary history might now have a new face.
The Early Days at Auburn
When Johni Broome first transferred to Auburn ahead of the 2022-2023 season, expectations were high. Known for his standout performances at Morehead State, Broome was expected to be a significant contributor. However, what he achieved exceeded even the most optimistic projections.
In his first season, Broome averaged 14.4 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game, earning first-team All-SEC honors. His versatility as both a scorer and a defender made him an invaluable asset for Auburn’s head coach, Bruce Pearl. Broome’s ability to play in the paint, while also stretching the floor with mid-range shots and the occasional three-pointer, gave Auburn a weapon that they hadn’t had in quite some time.
“Johni has that rare combination of skills that most players in the college game just don’t possess. He’s a difference-maker on both ends of the floor,” says Bruce Pearl, Auburn’s head coach. “We’ve had some great players here, but Johni’s impact is hard to measure because of how much he does for this team.”
Comparing Broome to Auburn’s Greats
Of course, when comparing Broome to Auburn’s all-time greats, Charles Barkley is the name that always comes up. Barkley, who played for the Tigers from 1981 to 1984, is a two-time NBA MVP and one of the most iconic players in basketball history. His combination of athleticism, power, and basketball IQ made him a generational talent. Many still view him as the standard for Auburn basketball greatness.
However, Broome’s all-around game and immediate impact on the program have forced some to reconsider the pecking order. While Barkley’s dominance at the NBA level is unparalleled, Broome’s collegiate impact cannot be overlooked. His defensive ability, paired with his offensive versatility, has made him one of the most well-rounded players in the country. He has developed into a leader for Auburn, especially in high-stakes games, a quality that Barkley also exhibited during his time on The Plains.
“Charles Barkley is still the gold standard at Auburn, but Johni is coming for that throne,” says former Auburn player and current NBA analyst Chris Morris. “The way Johni has turned this program into a contender every year he’s been here speaks volumes. He has a chance to leave his own legacy and rewrite Auburn’s history.”
Broome’s Legacy in the Making
It’s clear that Broome is already one of the best players to ever don an Auburn jersey. His performances in key games, including the Tigers’ deep runs in the NCAA Tournament, have etched his name into Auburn’s basketball lore. His leadership, consistent production, and ability to step up in big moments make him a player Auburn fans will remember for years to come.
“I came here to make a difference, and I’m not satisfied with just being good,” Broome says. “I want to help this program win, and I want to leave a legacy that people talk about for generations.”
While it’s tough to definitively say if Broome has surpassed Barkley as Auburn’s greatest player ever, the conversation is certainly worth having. With more years of eligibility remaining and his continued growth as a player, Broome has the potential to carve out a legacy of his own, one that could one day be measured against the likes of Barkley and others. For now, Auburn fans are content to simply enjoy the ride as Johni Broome continues to rewrite the program’s history.
