Auburn center Johni Broome is no newcomer, he is currently playing his fifth season of college basketball and third at Auburn. But the 6-foot-10 big man has grown his game each season to find himself in a National Player of the Year race, a virtual lock for All-American honors and on the radar of NBA Draft evaluators.

Broome started his career at Morehead State, averaging 15.4 points and 9.8 rebounds over two seasons before entering the transfer portal. He landed at Auburn, where he first established himself as a key piece of Bruce Pearl’s defense while continuing to grow his offensive package.

While other college elites face questions about their NBA prospects, Broome has faced his head-on and displayed major improvement in key areas scouts want to see.

Breaking down Johni Broome

The profile for Johni Broome starts on defense. While he does not match the height of some rim-protecting centers, the defensive versatility, quick bursts and athleticism make him a valuable asset in multiple roles which translate across levels. These traits are found across many of the players used in small NBA lineups, which are increasingly popular with the high speed of play.

His production in college is unquestionable. The Auburn center averages 3.4 blocks + steals (stocks) with a Defensive Rating of 88.5.

The questions mark which largely kept Broome from finding a good 2024 NBA Draft promise likely came on offense. While he was among the best in college basketball on that end last year averaging 16.5 points, the way he scored did not match how his professional comparisons often do.

In the mold of two Boston Celtics – who feature one of the fastest and most efficient offenses in basketball history – Broome’s best chance to stick in the NBA is somewhere between Al Horford and Xavier Tillman.

Last season, he made 35.4-percent of his 3-pointers.

This year, Broome is averaging 18.5 points for Auburn, shooting 56.4-percent from the field and 30.6-percent from the 3-point line.

His 3.0 attempts behind the arc make that number intriguing to track through the conference schedule when there could be a battle between finding his best look now or taking the shot which helps his projection.

The other area where he can impress scouts throughout the rest of the season comes with the ball in his hand. Regardless of whether he shoots, drives, posts up or passes the ball, making the correct read to get open looks will build his value further as a potential second-unit hub. While that role will not be necessary early, it provides a window for greater long-term value.