If you’re to ask who the NPOY is this season, for most of you, the answer will be Johni Broome. A large part of Auburn’s relentless pace this season can be credited to him. With an impressive 15-1 record, the team is riding an eight-game winning streak. Not just that—their latest victory, a 66-63 win over South Carolina, has added more to their success story. However, the game didn’t go entirely well.

Despite a staggering win, Auburn now faces its toughest test ahead. “Without our Player of the Year, it’s going to be hard to find offense down there. Johni’s unstoppable down there,” shared Bruce Pearl after the Tigers improved to 3-0 in the SEC. This came after their star forward endured an injury in the recent game, creating a void for someone on the roster to fill.

The big question is: who’s ready to rise and fill Broome’s shoes?

Auburn’s SEC dominance is at risk as NPOY hopeful faces a major setback

Broome is the definition of a game-changer. With his 6’10” frame, the star forward has been Auburn’s driving force all season. There’s a reason his dominance qualifies him as a National Player of the Year contender. Averaging 17.9 points and grabbing 10.7 rebounds per game, Broome has been a vital component of the Tigers’ roster.

“The thing that makes him special is because of his size… His mobility, his touch, and his ability to read defenses,” said Dauster. As a fifth-year senior and preseason All-American, Auburn’s star contributes significantly to multiple facets of the game. Be it his statistical output—where he impacts the game both offensively and defensively—or his standout performances, he never fails to impress.

Simply put, he has been instrumental in Auburn’s ascent to the No. 1 spot in both the AP and Coaches Top 25 Polls. But all this success has come to a halt. During the matchup versus South Carolina, he sustained an ankle injury. While battling for a rebound, he awkwardly landed on Chaney Johnson’s foot.

“We’ll MRI it, X-ray it when he gets back, and hopefully that’s what it is,” admitted head coach Bruce Pearl. However, the Coach was already preparing for the “next man up” mantra while the team braced for its ultimate test.

“He’s not a young freshman… So it’s going to take a little bit of time for him to get back,” said Oglesby. With Johni Broome sidelined, Auburn’s frontcourt finds itself in uncharted territory.

Who’s ready to rise to the challenge?

Enter Dylan Cardwell, the towering 6’11” junior who’s been Auburn’s defensive backbone off the bench. His presence in the paint has been intimidating this season. Averaging 5.5 points while grabbing 4.6 rebounds per game, Cardwell isn’t just filling minutes. He’s second on the team with 1.4 blocks and shoots an astonishing 67.8% from the field.

His ability to alter shots and control the defensive glass could be exactly what Auburn needs in Broome’s absence. “Dylan has the physical tools to make an impact, but it’s his energy that can truly ignite the team,” shared Coach Bruce Pearl. Yet, the question lingers: can he step up as an offensive weapon, or will his role remain limited to defense?

When you think of a player who can do it all, Chaney Johnson’s name comes to mind. The 6’7” forward has been quietly effective, averaging 10.1 points with 5.3 rebounds per game. His versatility is his calling card—he can score inside, hit mid-range jumpers, and even stretch the floor with a 25% three-point shooting percentage.

“Chaney brings a lot to the table—he’s a Swiss Army knife for us,” said assistant coach Ira Bowman. Johnson’s defensive versatility, paired with his ability to score in transition and hit clutch shots, makes him a prime candidate to shoulder the offensive load.

The Untapped Potential of Ja’Heim Hudson

Hudson is the dark horse in this equation. The young forward’s numbers—1.7 points, and 0.9 rebounds per game—don’t jump off the page. If you think these stats are below average, then consider a game against Texas A&M. “He’s still finding his rhythm, but when Ja’Heim is locked in, his athleticism and hustle can change the game,” said Pearl.

With Broome out, Hudson could see an expanded role, giving him the chance to make a name for himself and help Auburn maintain their SEC dominance.

Then there’s Chris Moore. Stats alone can’t measure his contributions. A relentless defender and tireless worker, Moore embodies the spirit of the team. While he’s not a primary scorer, his hustle plays—diving for loose balls, and boxing out opponents. His willingness to embrace the work on the court could make all the difference in close games.

Auburn’s Strategy Without Broome

Broome’s absence doesn’t just affect individual performances; it forces Auburn to rethink its approach. Replacing Broome won’t be easy—there’s no sugarcoating that. The next few games will be a true test of Auburn’s resilience. Can they maintain their momentum without their star forward?

It’s a tall order, but if there’s one thing we know about this Tigers squad, it’s that they won’t back down from a challenge!

As basketball analyst Terrence Oglesby put it, “Auburn has enough talent to still finish.” While Broome’s absence is a massive blow, Bruce Pearl’s boys have the tools to adapt and stay competitive. Auburn fans will be hoping for a swift recovery for their star, but until then, it’s time for the rest of the team to step up.

This season’s story is far from over. With determination, depth, and a little magic, Auburn just might weather the storm—and come out even stronger. Stay tuned, Tigers fans. The journey continues!