Auburn forward Johni Broome selected in 2025 NBA Draft

In a moment of triumph for both player and program, Auburn forward Johni Broome heard his name called in the 2025 NBA Draft, marking the culmination of a collegiate journey that began with quiet promise and ended with national recognition. Broome, the versatile 6-foot-10 forward who anchored Auburn’s frontcourt over the past two seasons, was selected with the 24th overall pick by the Milwaukee Bucks in Thursday night’s draft, capping off an impressive college career and ushering in a new chapter in professional basketball.

The selection was met with widespread celebration in Auburn, where Broome had emerged as the heart and soul of the Tigers’ program under head coach Bruce Pearl. Known for his relentless motor, soft touch around the rim, and high defensive IQ, Broome became a fan favorite on the Plains, a fixture in the SEC, and one of the most productive big men in the nation.

“This is a dream come true,” Broome said shortly after his name was announced. “All the work, all the hours in the gym, all the people who believed in me—it’s all led to this. I’m thankful to Coach Pearl, my teammates, my family, and Auburn University. Now I’m ready to take the next step.”

Broome’s rise to first-round status was anything but conventional. A Florida native who began his college career at Morehead State, Broome transferred to Auburn in 2022 after two standout seasons in the Ohio Valley Conference. At Auburn, he quickly proved he belonged on the SEC stage, averaging 14.2 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game in his first year while helping the Tigers reach the NCAA Tournament.

His junior season saw another leap. Broome led the team in scoring and rebounding, earned First-Team All-SEC honors, and was a semifinalist for the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award, given to the nation’s top center. But it was his final campaign, the 2024–25 season, that turned heads among NBA scouts. Broome averaged 17.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks while shooting a career-high 38% from three-point range—an evolution in his game that significantly boosted his draft stock.

“We’ve always known Johni had the tools,” Pearl said in an interview during the ESPN broadcast. “But what’s impressed me most is his growth. He came in hungry, coachable, and committed to getting better every day. The league is getting a guy who’s ready to make an impact from day one.”

Milwaukee’s selection of Broome was somewhat unexpected, given mock drafts had projected him in the late first or early second round. But the Bucks, who have been seeking youth and depth in the frontcourt behind veteran star Giannis Antetokounmpo, were drawn to Broome’s combination of size, mobility, and rim protection.

“We were really impressed with Johni’s interview and his workout,” Bucks GM Jon Horst said. “He plays hard, he defends multiple positions, and he’s shown that he can step out and hit the outside shot. He fits the modern NBA and our team identity.”

Broome’s versatility is indeed part of what made him such an intriguing prospect. While his bread and butter remains post play and interior defense, his improved outside shooting, lateral quickness, and decision-making in the short roll have made him a potential stretch-four or small-ball five at the next level. In a league that values switchability and floor spacing, Broome brings both.

At the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago, Broome tested well, registering a 7-foot-2 wingspan, a 34-inch vertical leap, and showing consistent range from NBA three-point distance. During team interviews, he impressed front offices with his humility, basketball IQ, and team-first approach.

“He’s not flashy, but he’s incredibly effective,” said ESPN analyst Jay Bilas. “He does all the little things—sets solid screens, talks on defense, crashes the boards, makes smart passes. He’s the kind of player who helps you win games, even when he’s not filling up the stat sheet.”

For Auburn, Broome becomes the latest in a growing line of NBA-caliber players developed under Bruce Pearl, joining the likes of Jabari Smith Jr., Chuma Okeke, Isaac Okoro, and Walker Kessler. His selection further cements Pearl’s reputation as a coach who can prepare players for the next level—especially big men.

“Coach Pearl pushed me every day,” Broome said. “He believed in me when I transferred in, and he held me to a high standard. Auburn gave me the platform to grow, not just as a player but as a man. I’ll always be proud to be a Tiger.”

Broome’s journey is also a testament to the value of patience and development in college basketball. At a time when many players chase immediate stardom or quick exits to the pros, Broome chose to stay the course, polish his game, and maximize his college experience. The decision paid off—both in his draft position and his readiness for the next level.

“Some guys need more time to grow, and that’s okay,” Pearl said. “Johni didn’t rush the process. He built his game brick by brick. And now he’s ready to thrive in the NBA.”

As Broome prepares to make the leap, he does so with strong support from Auburn fans, who flooded social media with congratulations and tributes following his selection. The Auburn basketball program hosted a watch party at Neville Arena, where students and staff erupted in applause when Broome’s name was called.

“I remember when he transferred here and nobody outside the SEC knew his name,” one student posted. “Now he’s an NBA player. Incredible story.”

Broome is expected to join the Bucks’ Summer League roster in Las Vegas next month, where he’ll have the chance to showcase his skills against fellow rookies and NBA hopefuls. While his role in Milwaukee’s rotation remains to be defined, early indications suggest the team views him as a long-term contributor with the potential to develop into a starting-caliber forward.

“I’m not taking anything for granted,” Broome said. “I know nothing is given at this level. But I’m ready to earn it every step of the way. I’ve done it before, and I’ll do it again.”

His path to the NBA—one that began in Plant City, Florida, went through Morehead State, and found its apex at Auburn—has been built on resilience, work ethic, and a quiet confidence. Now, that journey continues on the sport’s biggest stage.

As Auburn fans celebrate one of their own making it to the league, Broome’s story serves as a reminder that success in basketball, like in life, often rewards those who commit to growth, embrace the grind, and seize the moment when it comes.

And for Johni Broome, that moment has finally arrived.