As the Auburn Tigers prepare for their NCAA Final Four matchup against the Florida Gators in San Antonio, senior forward Johni Broome has been honored with the NABC Pete Newell Big Man of the Year award. This prestigious accolade highlights his dominance throughout the 2024-2025 college basketball season.
Auburn Basketball’s official X account announced the achievement with a striking image of Broome in action. His recognition is a historic milestone for the program, as he becomes the first Auburn player to receive the award, which is voted on by members of the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) across NCAA Division I.
Broome has been instrumental in the Tigers’ success, averaging an impressive double-double with 18.7 points and 10.9 rebounds per game, along with 2.9 assists and 2.1 blocks. His standout performance in the Elite Eight against Michigan State, where he recorded 25 points and 14 rebounds, underscored his importance to Auburn’s deep tournament run. He dominated in the paint, proving too much for the Spartans’ defense to contain.
Despite a brief injury scare in the Elite Eight due to an elbow issue, Broome’s resilience and leadership have been key in driving the team forward. His latest recognition as the nation’s top big man only adds to the Tigers’ momentum as they push toward a national championship. Head coach Bruce Pearl will likely use Broome’s prestigious honor as extra motivation for his team as they chase history.
