Johni Broome injury update: Bruce Pearl expects Auburn star to play in Final Four vs. Florida

For a few moments, Auburn was without star player Johni Broome against Michigan State. Broome left the game after holding his right arm and was even seen mouthing the words “I’m done.” Somehow, he was able to return to the game and help the Tigers earn a spot in the Final Four.

The main storyline surrounding Auburn immediately becomes Broome’s health moving forward. A bit of a mixed review came from head coach Bruce Pearl on Monday after revealing a hyperextended elbow is the problem. Ultimately, Pearl does expect to have Broome available in San Antonio against Florida.

“He’s sore. We didn’t practice today, and we’ll practice tomorrow – but Johni won’t practice,” Pearl told Jeff Goodman of The Field of 68. “He’s sore, but I fully expect him to play on Saturday.”

Broome still played 29 minutes in the Elite Eight, finishing with 25 points and 14 rebounds. He sent State Farm Arena into a frenzy with a made three-pointer after coming back onto the court. At the time, Michigan State was making a push but Broome’s shot felt like a dagger.

No matter how the season finishes, Broome is in a two-horse race to win National Player of the Year. Duke’s Cooper Flagg is the other competitor and he will be playing in the Final Four as well. Some might even be hoping they face off against one another in the national championship game.

Auburn will need to have Broome available in order to get there, though. Florida is going to be a tough task for the Tigers, with or without Broome.

“As you mentioned, Johni Broome dealing with those two injuries. He’s in the locker room right now,” CBS’ Tracy Wolfson said during the game. “Bruce Pearl asked Johni as he was walking off the court if he was okay and he looked at him and said no. He told his teammates to finish the game. His parents were very emotional as they entered the locker room. That’s where they are right now.”

“We were told they are still evaluating it. The biggest concern is the elbow injury but we were told there is a slight chance he can still return.”

Todd Golden was the only coach to take Pearl down on the Plains this season. A bit of revenge might be on Auburn’s mind because of it. Florida took them down on Feb. 8 by nine, a game Broome was not at his best. Yes, a double-double is on the stat sheet but 18 points wound up being just below his season average.