Auburn's standout player, Johni Broome, faced a daunting challenge during the second half of an intense Elite Eight matchup against Michigan State. In a pivotal moment, Broome landed awkwardly while diving for a loose ball, resulting in a concerning twist of his elbow. The incident raised alarms, prompting Broome to leave the game briefly for medical evaluation.
After undergoing X-rays, which fortunately returned negative, Broome made an impressive return to the court. His resilience and determination were on full display as he helped lead the Tigers to a 70-64 victory, securing their place in the Final Four against their conference rival, Florida.
Following the game, CBS sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson caught up with Broome to discuss his condition and outlook for the upcoming game. “I will be, but all glory to God,” Broome confidently stated, clearly expressing his intention to play in the highly anticipated Final Four matchup.
The Auburn Tigers are counting on Broome's presence as they advance in the tournament. As a first-team All-American, he has been a dominant force throughout the season, showcasing his skills once again in the game against Michigan State.
Shortly after returning to the lineup post-injury, Broome made an immediate impact by securing a one-handed rebound. He then confidently sank a three-pointer, electrifying the crowd and reigniting Auburn's momentum at a critical juncture when Michigan State was threatening to mount a comeback.
Despite missing approximately 11 minutes of game time due to his injury, Broome finished the contest with an impressive stat line of 25 points and 14 rebounds. The coaching staff managed his playing time cautiously in the second half, but Broome’s performance was crucial in maintaining the Tigers' lead.
Wolfson provided insight from the sidelines in Atlanta, noting the initial concerns regarding Broome's injury. “Obviously, there was a lot of fear as he walked into that locker room but I was told he went in for X-rays, those X-rays were negative and, as you see, he’s giving it a go,” she reported, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding his condition.
During the incident, Broome appeared to twist his left ankle while simultaneously hyper-extending his right elbow. He was seen on the court in visible pain for a few moments before walking off to consult with his team and family before heading to the locker room. Despite the scare, Broome's quick return to action reassured fans and teammates alike.
As the Auburn Tigers gear up for their Final Four appearance, the team is hopeful that Johni Broome will continue to deliver exceptional performances. His ability to bounce back from injury and contribute significantly in high-stakes situations marks him as a key player for Auburn's championship aspirations. With Broome on the court, the Tigers are poised to make a strong showing against Florida in the upcoming game.
