Johni Broome’s right elbow bent in an unnatural direction.
Midway through the second half, it seemed Auburn would lose its star player for the remainder of the Elite Eight battle against Michigan State after a hard fall.
CBS sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson noted that Broome and his parents were visibly emotional upon entering the locker room. Auburn’s staff asked if he was okay, and he simply replied, “No.”
Yet, less than 30 minutes later, Broome re-entered the game.
On Auburn’s first offensive possession, CBS color commentator urged the Tigers to get him the ball. They obliged.
Broome popped out to the top of the key and, with his signature left-handed stroke, launched a three-pointer—nothing but net.
During a stoppage in play, he flexed his hand and arm, seemingly testing his condition. He even secured a rebound using only his left hand, keeping his injured right arm at his side.
Though not at full strength, his presence made all the difference.
For a brief stretch, Auburn was without its National Player of the Year contender.
But then, like Willis Reed in the 1970 NBA Finals, Broome made his dramatic return. He didn’t need to take over the game—one clutch three-pointer was enough.
With Broome back, Auburn was whole again. And the Tigers were on the brink of the Final Four.
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