BROOKLYN, N.Y. – Auburn University’s basketball sensation Johni Broome is heading to the NBA after being selected by the Philadelphia 76ers with the 35th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. The SEC Player of the Year and two-time All-American leaves an indelible mark on college basketball, becoming the first Auburn player drafted by the 76ers since Hall of Famer Charles Barkley in 1984.
“I’m a winner. I get things done offensively and defensively,” Broome proclaimed confidently on ESPN’s broadcast. “The 76ers got a good one.”
Broome’s journey to the NBA reflects grit and growth. Starting at Morehead State, where he earned Player of the Year honors, Broome transferred to Auburn and silenced critics by dominating the SEC. His accolades include being a Naismith Trophy finalist and setting NCAA Division I history as the only player with 2,500 points, 1,500 rebounds, and 400 blocks.
Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl praised Broome as a rare talent. “Johni could have been the steal of the second round,” Pearl said. “He wasn’t supposed to be good enough to play at a high major and ended up as the SEC Player of the Year. Philadelphia made a great decision.”
Broome’s leadership propelled Auburn to its first Final Four since 2019, cementing his legacy as one of the program’s all-time greats. His postseason dominance includes five career double-doubles in the NCAA Tournament, tying legends like Shaquille O’Neal and Dan Issel.
Jay Bilas, an ESPN analyst, highlighted Broome’s elite skill set, including a 66% shooting percentage at the rim, dominant rebounding, and tenacity in the post. “He carves out space and gets things done,” Bilas said.
During the 2024-25 season, Broome averaged 18.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, leading the Tigers in scoring and rebounding. His remarkable consistency, with five double-doubles in NCAA Tournament play, solidified his place among college basketball’s best.
Broome’s selection continues a proud tradition for Auburn basketball under Bruce Pearl, marking the seventh NBA Draft pick in seven years. Joining the likes of Isaac Okoro and Walker Kessler, Broome becomes the 36th player in program history to hear his name called on draft night.
With his versatility, competitiveness, and leadership, Johni Broome is poised to make a sweet impact in Philadelphia, carrying Auburn’s pride and a legacy of excellence into the NBA.
