Blockbuster Breaking: Auburn’s Johni Broome Declares for NBA Draft But Keeps Return Option Alive — Tigers Nation Holds Its Breath

In a dramatic development that has shaken the Auburn basketball community, star forward Johni Broome officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft—yet he isn’t slamming the door on a potential return to the Plains. The news sent shockwaves through Tiger Nation, igniting a firestorm of speculation and emotional reactions from fans, players, and analysts alike. With Auburn coming off a promising season and hopes high for a deep tournament run next year, Broome’s announcement adds a layer of uncertainty to the program’s future.

Broome took to social media early Friday morning with a message that was both heartfelt and strategic. “After prayerful consideration and talks with my family and coaches, I’ve decided to enter my name in the 2025 NBA Draft while maintaining my college eligibility,” Broome wrote. “Auburn has been my home, and I’m grateful for everything this journey has brought me. This is not goodbye—just a new chapter.”

The announcement reflects the growing trend of college athletes exploring professional opportunities while still leaving the door ajar for a collegiate return. Under NCAA rules, players can test the NBA Draft waters and receive feedback from scouts and executives, so long as they do not hire an agent certified by the league or receive benefits that compromise their amateur status. For Broome, this is a chance to gauge his draft stock, receive vital evaluations, and make the most informed decision possible about his basketball future.

Broome’s contributions to the Auburn Tigers have been nothing short of transformative. In the 2024-2025 season, the 6-foot-10 forward averaged 17.4 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game while anchoring Bruce Pearl’s squad on both ends of the floor. His physical presence, high motor, and ability to stretch the floor made him one of the most dominant big men in the SEC. He was named First-Team All-SEC and helped lead Auburn to a strong NCAA Tournament run, further elevating his profile.

Coach Bruce Pearl issued a supportive statement shortly after Broome’s announcement: “Johni has earned the right to explore the next step in his career. We fully support his decision and are proud of the work he’s put in on and off the court. Whether he decides to stay in the draft or return for another season, he will always be a part of the Auburn family.”

Broome’s potential departure leaves a significant void in Auburn’s frontcourt, but his option to return gives the program and its fans a sliver of hope. His leadership, experience, and production would be nearly impossible to replace in one offseason. While Pearl and his staff have already been active in the transfer portal and on the recruiting trail, the uncertainty surrounding Broome’s future could influence those efforts dramatically.

Fans across Auburn’s passionate base are experiencing a whirlwind of emotions. Some see this as the natural next step for a player of Broome’s caliber, while others are desperately hoping he uses this opportunity merely as an exploratory one. Social media has been flooded with supportive messages, videos of Broome’s top moments in orange and blue, and calls for him to “run it back” one more time.

“I understand he’s got to do what’s best for him, but man, I’m praying he comes back,” tweeted one longtime Auburn supporter. “We’ve got unfinished business.”

From a draft perspective, Broome is considered a borderline second-round pick by many scouts. His shot-blocking, rebounding, and improved offensive game make him a tantalizing prospect, but questions remain about his perimeter defense and ability to guard quicker forwards at the NBA level. This evaluation period will be critical for him to showcase his skills at the NBA Draft Combine and team workouts.

Should Broome return, Auburn would immediately vault into serious contention for a deep NCAA Tournament run in 2026. His presence would solidify a veteran core and provide a foundation for younger players to grow under a proven leader. For now, though, Auburn Nation waits in suspense.

The deadline for players to withdraw from the NBA Draft and retain eligibility is typically 10 days after the NBA Combine concludes, giving Broome several weeks to make his final decision. Until then, Tigers fans will be watching every tweet, highlight reel, and mock draft update with bated breath.