After a stellar season with the Auburn Tigers, capped off by being named SEC Player of the Year, Johni Broome now sets his sights on the NBA Draft. Auburn’s season ended in heartbreak with a Final Four loss to the Florida Gators, who went on to claim the national title. With Broome’s departure, head coach Bruce Pearl faces the challenge of filling the void in the frontcourt.
He addressed that need quickly, landing Mississippi State transfer KeShawn Murphy through the portal. The 6-foot-10 junior, who averaged 11.7 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game last season, returns to his home state after playing high school basketball in Birmingham. While replacing Broome’s dominance won’t be easy, Murphy’s arrival gives the Tigers an immediate upgrade and a solid foundation to build around.
Auburn also boasts the No. 18 recruiting class according to On3, featuring three four-star freshmen and two four-star transfers. Following a remarkable season, Coach Pearl is wasting no time reloading the roster. Should Tahaad Pettiford return, Auburn could have one of the most complete and deepest lineups in college basketball. Even if Pettiford doesn’t come back, the Tigers’ backcourt remains strong with incoming four-star guards Kaden Magwood and Simon Walker. Auburn is shaping up to be a team to watch, and reigning AP Coach of the Year Bruce Pearl is more than ready for the challenge ahead.
Be the first to comment