On January 11, 2025, Auburn University’s men’s basketball team secured a narrow 66-63 victory over the University of South Carolina Gamecocks. However, the win was overshadowed by a significant injury to Auburn’s star center, Johni Broome. Broome suffered a left ankle sprain during the game, raising concerns about his availability for upcoming matchups.
The Injury Incident
The injury occurred approximately six minutes into the second half. Broome attempted to secure a rebound but landed awkwardly on the foot of his teammate, Chaney Johnson, resulting in a painful ankle sprain. He immediately signaled for assistance and was escorted to the locker room by the training staff. At the time of the injury, Broome had contributed six points and three rebounds in 24 minutes of play. citeturn0search0
Bruce Pearl’s Assessment
Following the game, Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl provided an update on Broome’s condition. He described the injury as a “significant sprain” and indicated that Broome would undergo further medical evaluations, including an MRI, to assess the extent of the damage. Pearl expressed hope that the injury would not be severe but acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Broome’s recovery timeline. citeturn0search0
Broome’s Impact on Auburn’s Season
Johni Broome has been instrumental to Auburn’s success this season. Prior to the injury, he was averaging 18.7 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game, making him a strong contender for National Player of the Year honors. His presence in the paint has been a cornerstone of Auburn’s defense and offense, contributing significantly to their 15-1 record and No. 2 national ranking. citeturn0search4
Team’s Response and Future Outlook
In Broome’s absence, Auburn will rely on players like Dylan Cardwell and Chaney Johnson to fill the void in the frontcourt. Both have demonstrated the ability to contribute effectively, with Cardwell providing a strong defensive presence and Johnson offering scoring and rebounding support. Coach Pearl emphasized the importance of depth and adaptability, stating that the team must embrace the “next man up” mentality to maintain their competitive edge. citeturn0search6
The injury comes at a critical juncture in the season, with Auburn set to face several ranked opponents in the coming weeks. The team’s performance without Broome will be crucial in determining their standing in the Southeastern Conference and their prospects in the NCAA tournament.
