Johni Broome Shocks NCAA World by Turning Down San Antonio Spurs Offer to Stay with Auburn Tigers.
In a stunning turn of events, Auburn Tigers standout Johni Broome has made headlines across the basketball world after declining an offer from the San Antonio Spurs, who selected him with the 38th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. The decision to forego the NBA — and a potential pairing with generational talent Victor Wembanyama — has left fans, scouts, and analysts buzzing.
The Spurs had high hopes for Broome, the dominant big man who became a household name during his electric NCAA tournament performances. Known for his two-way presence and gritty leadership, Broome was widely projected as a second-round steal. San Antonio, already boasting a rising dynasty anchored by Wembanyama, viewed Broome as an ideal complement — a physical, experienced post player who could bring toughness and maturity to their developing roster.
However, in a move reminiscent of rare past decisions by college stars, Broome announced just hours after the draft that he would not be joining the Spurs this season. Instead, he’ll return to Auburn for another year, citing “unfinished business” and a commitment to chasing a national championship.
> “This wasn’t an easy call,” Broome said in a statement released via Auburn’s athletic department. “Getting drafted by an iconic franchise like San Antonio is an honor I’ll always cherish. But my heart tells me there’s more to accomplish here at Auburn. I owe it to my brothers, Coach Pearl, and this fanbase to finish what we started.”
The decision adds another layer of drama to an already unpredictable draft season. It also marks a rare moment where the lure of college legacy — and perhaps the appeal of lucrative NIL deals — has outweighed the immediate leap to the NBA.
For the Spurs, the surprise move leaves them with an unexpected void and potentially forces a pivot in their offseason plans. For Auburn, it’s a massive win — one that instantly cements the Tigers as serious contenders for next year’s national title.
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