After an outstanding season that saw Johni Broome earn SEC Player of the Year honors, the Auburn Tigers are preparing for a new chapter. With Broome setting his sights on the NBA Draft, Auburn must now face the challenge of moving forward without their star player. The Tigers’ season ended in heartbreaking fashion with a narrow loss to the Florida Gators in the Final Four—a team that would go on to win the national championship. Now, with the focus turned to next season, Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl knew he had to act fast to address the significant hole left by Broome’s departure, especially in the forward position.
The Tigers took a decisive step in the right direction by landing Mississippi State transfer KeShawn Murphy. The 6-foot-10 junior forward announced his commitment to Auburn after posting solid numbers last season: 11.7 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game. Murphy brings immediate value to the roster and will also return to his home state, having played high school basketball in Birmingham, Alabama. While Broome’s skill and leadership on the court are incredibly tough to replicate, Murphy’s presence will go a long way in helping Auburn maintain its competitive edge in the SEC.
Coach Pearl is assembling a promising squad for next season. Auburn’s recruiting class is ranked No. 18 nationally by On3, featuring three four-star freshmen and two four-star transfers. The infusion of talent gives the Tigers a strong foundation to build upon, especially as they reload for another run at championship contention.
If highly-touted recruit Tahaad Pettiford decides to return to school, Auburn’s roster could become one of the deepest and most well-rounded in all of college basketball. Even in the event Pettiford doesn’t return, the Tigers are well-positioned in the backcourt thanks to the additions of four-star guards Kaden Magwood and Simon Walker. With Bruce Pearl, the reigning AP Coach of the Year, at the helm, Auburn is shaping up to be a major force next season. Fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on what this revamped team can achieve.
