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Bruce Pearl Provides Injury Update on Johni Broome as Extension might increase, Commends Miles skelly and Chad Baker-Mazara for stepping up for the team

Bruce Pearl Provides Injury Update on Johni Broome as Extension might increase, Commends Miles skelly and Chad Baker-Mazara for stepping up for the team

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Bruce Pearl Provides Injury Update on Johni Broome, Commends Auburn’s Depth

Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl has given an update on the injury status of star forward/center Johni Broome, confirming that the standout big man could be sidelined for another two weeks due to lingering concerns over his ankle sprain. Broome, who sustained the injury in Auburn’s January 11 victory over South Carolina, has been recovering steadily but remains unavailable for game action.

“We’re being cautious with Johni because we want him back at full strength,” Pearl said in a media availability session. “He’s making progress, but we’re looking at possibly another two weeks before he’s fully ready to compete. It’s a tough loss for us, but we have to think long-term. We need him healthy for the final stretch of the season.”

Broome has been Auburn’s most dominant force this season, averaging 17.9 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game before his injury. His absence has left a noticeable gap in the Tigers’ lineup, particularly in the paint. However, Pearl expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adjust, praising the efforts of senior guard/forward Chad Baker-Mazara and senior guard Miles Kelly for stepping up in Broome’s absence.

“Chad and Miles have been phenomenal for us,” Pearl said. “Chad’s energy and scoring ability have really helped us maintain offensive pressure, and Miles has shown why we brought him in—his shooting and leadership have been key. It’s never easy losing a player of Johni’s caliber, but these guys have done a great job keeping us competitive.”

Baker-Mazara has been instrumental in Auburn’s recent performances, contributing 18 points in the Tigers’ recent matchup against Mississippi State. Meanwhile, Kelly, a sharpshooter transfer from Georgia Tech, has provided a steady scoring presence, helping Auburn maintain its offensive rhythm without their dominant post presence.

With Broome expected to be out for at least another two weeks, Auburn will need to continue relying on its depth as it navigates a tough SEC schedule. The Tigers’ next few games will be crucial in determining their positioning for the conference tournament, and Pearl remains optimistic about the team’s resilience.

“We’re going to battle every game,” Pearl stated. “Johni is a huge part of what we do, but we’ve got a team that’s ready to step up and compete.”

Auburn fans will be eagerly awaiting Broome’s return, but in the meantime, the Tigers will look to maintain their strong form as they push toward the postseason.



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