Without Johni Broome, Auburn Defeats Georgia on the Road to Record Their Second Consecutive Rated Victory
Auburn’s basketball team has long been a staple of competitive play in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), consistently performing at a high level. The 2025 season, however, has been a defining year for the Tigers, marked by resilience, depth, and the emergence of new stars. On January 20th, Auburn further solidified their position as one of the top teams in the SEC, securing a crucial road victory over Georgia. What made this win particularly remarkable was the absence of Johni Broome, Auburn’s star player and a key component of their offense and defense. Despite Broome’s absence due to injury, the Tigers proved their mettle with a gritty 75-69 victory over the Bulldogs, earning their second consecutive rated victory in the process.
The Context of the Game
Auburn entered the game against Georgia riding a wave of momentum, having recently secured a highly impressive win against a top-ranked opponent. The victory had catapulted them into the national conversation, and the Tigers were determined to maintain their position in the upper echelons of the SEC standings. However, the challenge of playing on the road in a hostile environment in Athens, Georgia, added an additional layer of difficulty. The Bulldogs, under the guidance of head coach Mike White, had been showing considerable improvement in recent weeks, making them a formidable opponent for any team in the league.
But as Auburn prepared for the contest, the absence of Johni Broome cast a shadow over their plans. Broome had been a standout performer for Auburn all season long, averaging double-digit points, contributing defensively, and serving as the emotional leader for the team. His leadership on both ends of the court would be sorely missed, and the Tigers would need to find ways to compensate for his absence.
The Tigers’ Response to Broome’s Absence
Auburn’s response to Broome’s absence was a testament to the team’s depth and their ability to adapt under pressure. Instead of folding under the weight of the challenge, the Tigers came together and leaned on their other strengths, relying on their defensive prowess and balanced offensive attack to secure the victory.
One of the key players who stepped up in Broome’s absence was sophomore forward, Allen Flanigan. Flanigan had been consistent throughout the season, but in this game, he took on a more prominent role. With Broome sidelined, Flanigan was tasked with taking on more scoring responsibility, and he did not disappoint. He finished the game with 21 points, a team-high, while also contributing 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Flanigan’s ability to score efficiently and rebound in key moments gave Auburn the offensive boost they needed to keep pace with Georgia.
Alongside Flanigan, senior guard Wendell Green Jr. was instrumental in Auburn’s success. Green had been a steady presence in the backcourt for the Tigers, and in this game, he exhibited his playmaking ability and leadership. He scored 18 points and dished out 6 assists, orchestrating Auburn’s offense and ensuring that the team remained cohesive without Broome. Green’s ability to run the offense and get his teammates involved was crucial, particularly during stretches where Georgia threatened to make a run.
The Tigers also received important contributions from their bench, a group that had been quietly effective all season. Players like Dylan Cardwell and Tre Donaldson provided energy and defensive stops, keeping the game within reach when it seemed like Georgia might pull away. Cardwell was especially effective in the paint, blocking shots and contesting any attempts at the rim, while Donaldson’s defensive tenacity frustrated Georgia’s ball handlers and helped Auburn stymie their offensive flow.
The Defensive Mastery
Auburn’s defense was the backbone of their victory over Georgia. Even without Broome, who is known for his shot-blocking and rim protection, the Tigers demonstrated their ability to lock down opposing offenses. Coach Bruce Pearl, who is known for emphasizing strong defensive schemes, had his team executing perfectly on that end of the floor.
Auburn’s defensive game plan was simple: limit Georgia’s shooting opportunities, contest every shot, and force the Bulldogs into uncomfortable positions. The Tigers executed this plan to perfection. Georgia’s leading scorer, Kario Oquendo, was held to just 12 points on 4-of-12 shooting. Auburn’s ability to shut down Georgia’s perimeter shooting—combined with their constant pressure on the ball—disrupted the Bulldogs’ offensive flow and prevented them from finding any rhythm.
One of the more impressive aspects of Auburn’s defense was their ability to force turnovers. They managed to generate 12 steals and capitalize on several fast-break opportunities, which led to easy points. This defensive intensity was a major factor in the game, as Auburn continually disrupted Georgia’s offensive sets and made life difficult for the Bulldogs’ ball handlers.
Georgia’s Response and Auburn’s Composure
Despite Auburn’s strong defensive play and balanced scoring, Georgia did not go down without a fight. The Bulldogs, fueled by their home crowd, kept the game competitive throughout the second half. Georgia’s secondary players, including Justin Hill and Braelen Bridges, provided solid contributions and kept their team within striking distance.
At one point in the second half, Georgia had cut Auburn’s lead to just two points, creating a tense atmosphere. However, Auburn’s composure and experience shone through in the clutch moments. With just under four minutes remaining and the score tied at 65-65, Wendell Green Jr. hit a huge three-pointer that put the Tigers ahead. From that point on, Auburn’s defense clamped down once again, and the Tigers were able to make timely free throws and secure the victory.
What stood out during the final minutes of the game was Auburn’s ability to execute when it mattered most. While Broome’s leadership was sorely missed, Auburn’s collective effort ensured that the Tigers stayed focused and disciplined under pressure. The Tigers’ free-throw shooting, in particular, was exemplary down the stretch, with Flanigan and Green both knocking down critical shots from the line to ice the game.
A Statement Win for Auburn
Auburn’s 75-69 victory over Georgia without Johni Broome was a statement win. It demonstrated that the Tigers are more than just one player—they are a well-rounded team capable of rising to the occasion when needed. With their defensive intensity, balanced scoring, and resilience, Auburn proved that they could win in a variety of ways, making them one of the most dangerous teams in the SEC and beyond.
This victory also marked Auburn’s second consecutive win over a ranked opponent, further bolstering their reputation as a serious contender in the NCAA tournament picture. With Broome’s eventual return to the lineup, Auburn will only get stronger, and this win—coming in such difficult circumstances—will give the Tigers even more confidence as they move forward in the season.
As Auburn looks ahead to the rest of the SEC schedule, they know that their road to the top will not be easy. However, with their ability to thrive without their star player, the Tigers have proven that they are capable of overcoming any obstacle that comes their way. This victory over Georgia, particularly without Broome, will likely be remembered as a pivotal moment in Auburn’s quest for an SEC title and a deep run in the NCAA tournament.
