ATLANTA – The atmosphere inside State Farm Arena was electric, with a heavy Auburn crowd providing a loud and raucous backdrop for a crucial game. But that energy quickly shifted to concern when Johni Broome, Auburn’s star and SEC Player of the Year, went down with an injury in the third quarter of their game against Michigan State.
Broome grimaced on the floor, holding his right arm. His injury threatened both his immediate availability and Auburn’s championship hopes, as the No. 1 seed Tigers were now in jeopardy.
Broome’s Injury and the Team’s Response
With less than seven minutes remaining in the third quarter, Broome suffered the injury while driving to the basket. He stepped on the foot of Jabari Smith Jr. of Michigan State, and immediately collapsed in pain. As Broome limped off the court and into the locker room, he mouthed “I’m done” to his teammates, leaving them wondering what impact his absence would have on the game.
Despite Broome’s exit, Auburn held a 10-point lead with just under 11 minutes remaining. Auburn coach Bruce Pearl and his team were no strangers to adversity, having experienced a similar challenge earlier in the season when Broome had sprained his left ankle against South Carolina in January.
The Tigers had rallied in that game to secure a win, and assistant coach Steven Pearl said, “Our guys were more worried if he was OK and less so about whether we could win without him.”
Broome’s Dramatic Return and Auburn’s Victory
A few minutes later, Broome, channeling his inner Willis Reed, returned to the bench and told Steven Pearl, “I can play if you need me.” The crowd roared as Broome prepared to check back in. His return made an immediate impact. On his second play back, Broome grabbed a one-armed rebound, sprinted down the court, and hit a three-pointer to extend Auburn’s lead to 60-48 with 4:40 left in the game.
His shot effectively ended any hopes of a Michigan State comeback, as the Tigers held firm to their lead. Auburn went on to win 70-64, securing their second-ever Final Four appearance under Bruce Pearl.
Broome’s Performance and Auburn’s Team Effort
Despite the injury, Broome finished with a game-high 25 points and 14 rebounds, leading Auburn through a tough contest. Freshman guard Tahaad Pettiford was the only other Tiger in double digits with 10 points. The Tigers struggled from three-point range, shooting just 28% (7 of 25), but Broome’s all-around play made the difference.
Despite Michigan State’s defensive efforts to shut down Auburn’s perimeter shooting, Broome’s presence inside was irreplaceable. After the game, Michigan State coach Tom Izzo praised Broome, saying, “That’s why he’s an All-American.“
Auburn’s Path to San Antonio
The victory against Michigan State marks a significant step for Auburn, which now prepares for a rematch against Florida in the Final Four. Earlier this season, Auburn fell to Florida 90-81, but they will enter the next round with confidence, especially if Broome is healthy.
Broome’s injury is a concern heading into the Final Four, as he was seen holding his right arm and grimacing during breaks in the game. Afterward, he had an ice pack on his elbow and was seen with a trainer, though there were no signs of serious damage.
According to Coach Pearl, Broome underwent an in-game MRI, which confirmed no major injuries, but Pearl expects Broome to be sore in the coming days.
The Impact of Auburn’s Championship Run
Auburn’s victory against Michigan State is a testament to the team’s resilience, especially after last year’s disappointing first-round exit. This year, the Tigers have overcome injuries and adversity, and with a healthy Broome, they are poised for another shot at national glory.
The excitement in the arena was palpable as Auburn’s fans chanted, “It’s great to be an Auburn Tiger,” celebrating a moment that could mark the beginning of something special for the school.