Johni Broome, a dominant force during his collegiate career at Auburn University, is officially beginning his professional basketball journey after being selected in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft. Broome’s selection marks the culmination of years of hard work, development, and on-court excellence that earned him recognition as one of the SEC’s most impactful players.
Standing at 6-foot-9 with an imposing wingspan and an explosive athletic profile, Broome made his mark at Auburn as a versatile forward capable of impacting both ends of the floor. Over his three seasons with the Tigers, he steadily improved his game, becoming known for his rebounding tenacity, shot-blocking prowess, and efficient scoring around the basket. His senior year was particularly impressive, where he averaged 15.6 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game while serving as a team leader.
Despite his strong college resume, Broome was projected to be a late first-round or early second-round pick, with some scouts expressing concerns about his perimeter shooting and ball-handling in today’s increasingly pace-and-space NBA. Nevertheless, his physical tools and defensive potential made him a valuable prospect in the eyes of several NBA teams.
The team that ultimately drafted Broome sees him as a high-upside player who can contribute immediately as a rim protector and rebounder off the bench, with the potential to develop into a more well-rounded offensive weapon over time. His ability to guard multiple positions and protect the paint fits well with the modern NBA’s emphasis on versatile big men.
For Broome, entering the league as a second-round pick provides both motivation and opportunity. Unlike first-round selections, second-round picks often face less guaranteed money and roster security, but they also benefit from the chance to carve out roles through summer league performance, training camp efforts, and G League development. Many recent NBA success stories have emerged from second-round picks who embraced the challenge and steadily grew into key contributors.
Broome is expected to join his new team for the upcoming NBA Summer League, where he will have the chance to showcase his skills against fellow rookies and young players, demonstrating his readiness to transition to the professional level. Coaches and executives will be closely watching his ability to adapt to NBA speed, improve his shooting range, and compete physically.
Auburn fans and college basketball followers will be watching with great interest as Broome embarks on this new chapter. His journey from a promising high school recruit to a college standout and now an NBA draft pick exemplifies the dedication and perseverance required to reach the highest level of the sport.
While the road ahead will undoubtedly present challenges, Johni Broome’s combination of talent, work ethic, and competitive spirit position him well for a successful professional career. As he takes the next step, the basketball world will be eager to see how this former Auburn standout continues to grow and make his mark in the NBA.
