Florida Stuns No. 1 Auburn, Exposing Key Weakness in Johni Broome’s Game
Auburn’s 14-game winning streak came to a crashing halt on Saturday night as Florida delivered a stunning 90-81 upset at Neville Arena. The Tigers, who had firmly established themselves as the nation’s top-ranked team, were caught off guard by a relentless Gators squad that not only secured a statement win but also highlighted a crucial vulnerability in Auburn’s star player, Johni Broome.
Florida Exposes Auburn’s Weakness
Broome, a 6-foot-10 senior forward, has been a dominant force this season, averaging 18 points, 11 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game, making a strong case for National Player of the Year honors. However, Florida’s defensive approach neutralized his effectiveness, and analysts on The Field of 68: After Dark broke down exactly how they did it.
Mike LaTulip pointed out that Broome thrives when in motion rather than in traditional post-up situations. “The one thing that he isn’t extremely potent at is just back to the basket, post you up, and score,” LaTulip explained. Unlike most teams that double-team Broome in the post, Florida opted for single coverage, allowing them to clear defensive rebounds and push the tempo in transition.
How the Game Unfolded
Auburn initially appeared in control, fueled by a strong start from Chad Baker-Mazara, who converted an early four-point play. The Tigers even built a 10-point lead before Florida roared back to take a 48-38 halftime advantage. The Gators extended their lead to as much as 21 points in the second half, and while Auburn fought to close the gap, they never fully recovered.
Head coach Bruce Pearl acknowledged his team did not perform like a No. 1-ranked squad. Only two Auburn starters managed to score in double figures, while Florida dictated the game by exploiting Auburn’s reliance on Broome in static offensive sets.
“When they started posting Johni, that’s when Florida started to really get back into it,” LaTulip explained. “Because they could just play single coverage, clear the glass, and get out and play at the pace that they play with.”
The Adjustment Auburn Must Make
Broome remains one of the most skilled big men in college basketball, but analysts stress that Auburn must better utilize his strengths. Unlike traditional post-up centers, Broome excels as a dynamic finisher.
“You have to get Johni on the move,” LaTulip emphasized. “He’s so much more effective on the move, right? Putbacks, and as a roll man.”
The statistical difference between his efficiency in motion and in post-ups is striking. Broome is converting an outstanding 77% of his shots as a roll man but only 42% when operating from the post. Auburn must adjust its offensive sets to maximize his ability in transition and pick-and-roll situations.
Can Auburn Rebound from the Loss?
Despite the defeat, Broome still managed 18 points and 11 rebounds, but it was clear that Florida’s strategy had limited his impact. With other top programs likely to adopt a similar defensive approach, Auburn and Bruce Pearl must find ways to counteract it.
The Tigers’ top scorer remains a front-runner for NPOY, competing directly with Duke’s Cooper Flagg—who also suffered a loss on Saturday. If Broome can adjust his game and Auburn makes the necessary tactical changes, they still have the potential for a deep postseason run.
All eyes will be on how the Tigers respond, as this loss could serve as a crucial turning point in their championship aspirations.