After an emotional Final Four loss, an Auburn basketball star gives God the glory.

In a season that redefined the trajectory of Auburn basketball and galvanized a passionate fan base, the Tigers’ run to the Final Four ended in heartbreak. But in the aftermath of their gut-wrenching loss, one star emerged from the locker room not with anger or regret, but with gratitude—and a powerful message about faith.

Senior forward Johni Broome, whose name had become synonymous with leadership and relentless play throughout the NCAA Tournament, took the podium after Auburn’s 78–75 loss to Florida in a game that saw momentum swing wildly in both directions. With tears still fresh in his eyes, Broome began his remarks not by dissecting the final possessions, but by bowing his head and uttering four words that resonated far beyond the hardwood:

“All glory to God.”

A Career-Defining Season

Broome, who transferred to Auburn from Morehead State, quickly became the centerpiece of head coach Bruce Pearl’s evolving roster. Known for his shot-blocking instincts and inside dominance, the senior forward blossomed into a leader both on and off the court during the 2024–25 campaign.

Averaging 17.2 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game, Broome anchored the Tigers to a 29–8 record, their deepest NCAA Tournament run since the 2019 team made it to the national semifinals. Along the way, Auburn took down perennial powerhouses, earning national respect for their physicality, grit, and teamwork.

Yet even amid his standout performances—including a 28-point, 14-rebound effort in the Elite Eight—Broome remained consistent in his postgame message: that basketball was his platform, not his purpose.

“I play for something bigger than wins or stats,” Broome said during the tournament. “I’m blessed with this talent, but it’s God who gives me strength every time I step on that court.”

A Heartbreaking End

The Final Four matchup against SEC rival Florida was expected to be a battle—and it delivered.

Auburn jumped out to a double-digit lead in the first half behind Broome’s low-post scoring and the sharpshooting of junior guard Denver Jones. The Tigers looked poised to coast into the national championship game. But in the second half, Florida’s defense tightened, and a barrage of three-pointers flipped the game on its head.

With less than a minute left and Auburn trailing by two, Broome was fouled on a powerful drive to the basket. The arena fell silent as he stepped to the free-throw line. He made the first. The second clanked off the back iron. Florida secured the rebound, hit two free throws of their own, and survived Auburn’s final possession.

The buzzer sounded, and Auburn’s dream season was over.

Broome collapsed to the floor in exhaustion. His teammates rallied around him. Cameras captured the emotion. But what unfolded afterward was just as powerful.

Leading by Faith

While the sting of defeat lingered, Broome’s presence in the postgame press conference was a testament to his growth and maturity. Sitting beside Coach Pearl and fellow senior K.D. Johnson, Broome reflected on the game—and the journey—with clarity and humility.

“Yeah, this hurts. It really does,” he admitted, eyes red and voice cracking. “But I’m grateful. Grateful for my teammates, for this opportunity, for everything we’ve been through. Most of all, I give glory to God. He’s been with me every step.”

He continued, “It’s easy to praise Him when things are going great. But I’ve learned that the true test of faith is what you do when it doesn’t go your way. Tonight, I trust Him still.”

His words drew praise from across the basketball world. Fans and analysts alike took to social media, applauding Broome for his poise and spiritual maturity in the face of disappointment.

ESPN analyst Jay Bilas tweeted, “Johni Broome exemplifies leadership. To play like he did and still walk off that floor with perspective—that’s rare.”

Coach Pearl’s Praise

Bruce Pearl, never one to shy away from emotional moments, praised Broome’s evolution as both a player and a man of faith.

“We wouldn’t be here without Johni,” Pearl said. “He’s been the heart of this team, not just with his play, but with how he carries himself. He’s someone who plays for a higher purpose.”

Pearl also revealed that Broome had been leading team devotionals throughout March Madness, helping keep the team grounded amid the chaos of the tournament.

“In those huddles, he wasn’t just a basketball leader—he was a spiritual one,” Pearl shared. “He kept our guys focused, reminded them why we do this, who we do it for. I’m proud to coach him, but I’m even prouder of who he is off the court.”

Faith Through Adversity

For Broome, faith wasn’t something he turned to only when the lights were bright. It had been a guiding force throughout his life, especially during seasons of struggle.

Growing up in Plant City, Florida, Broome leaned on his Christian roots after being overlooked by high-major programs out of high school. When he committed to Morehead State, he did so with a chip on his shoulder and a prayer in his heart.

“God didn’t put me on the easy path,” he told reporters during the Sweet 16. “But He put me on the right one.”

His transfer to Auburn brought challenges: adjusting to a new system, proving himself in the SEC, and overcoming injuries. But through it all, he remained anchored in faith.

Teammates often describe Broome as a calming presence in the locker room, someone who prays before every game and writes Scripture on his shoes. This year, his favorite verse was Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

That verse became a rallying cry for the Tigers, who frequently posted it on social media and wore it on warmup shirts during their tournament run.

Legacy Cemented

While the Final Four loss will sting for years, Broome’s impact on Auburn basketball will last far longer.

He leaves as one of the most decorated big men in program history and a fan favorite whose humility and heart made him beloved in The Plains. He helped restore Auburn to national relevance and proved that players of faith can thrive at the highest levels of competition.

Perhaps most importantly, he served as a role model to younger teammates like Aden Holloway and Chad Baker-Mazara, who cited Broome’s example as transformative.

“Broome showed us what it means to be consistent, not just in work ethic but in how you treat people and how you carry your faith,” Holloway said. “He’s a brother for life.”

A Message to the Fans

Before leaving the press conference, Broome had one final message—not just to reporters, but to the Auburn family.

“Thank you for believing in us,” he said. “For packing out the Jungle, for sending prayers, for sticking with us even when things got rough. I love y’all. War Eagle forever.”

Then he paused, looked up, and added:

“And to God be the glory—always.”

What’s Next?

With his college career officially over, Broome now turns his eyes to the professional ranks. NBA scouts have taken notice of his improved midrange game, defensive versatility, and leadership qualities.

Though currently projected as a second-round pick, Broome’s stock could rise after pre-draft workouts and interviews, especially as teams look for culture builders and locker-room leaders.

Whether he hears his name called on draft night or takes a different path to professional basketball, one thing is clear: Johni Broome’s journey is just beginning.

And if his time at Auburn is any indication, that journey will be marked by grace, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to something greater than basketball.

In a sports world often defined by bravado and ego, Johni Broome stood tall in defeat—not by boasting, but by bowing. His declaration that “all glory goes to God” wasn’t just a postgame soundbite—it was the core of who he is.

The 2025 Auburn Tigers will be remembered for their wins. But they’ll be cherished for their witness.

And in the heart of that unforgettable run stood a young man who reminded us all that victory comes in many forms—and that faith, especially in loss, is the greatest triumph of all.