Sixers rookie Johni Broome describes himself as a leader, teammate
CAMDEN, N.J. -- Philadelphia 76ers rookie big man Johni Broome is carrying a bit of a chip on his shoulder after sliding to the Sixers in Round 2 of the 2025 NBA draft with overall pick No. 35. A decorated player during his career at Auburn, Broome will be looking to make an impact.
When considering the Sixers could lose Guerschon Yabusele in free agency, one has to believe Broome would have an opportunity open for himself as a rookie in Philadelphia. Either way, he will be looking to contribute and he feels like he can do so in a variety of ways.
"I would say my will to win and hating to lose," Broome said on Friday. "When you hate losing, you do whatever it takes. If that's owning up to your mistake or calling out one of your teammate's mistakes. I think that's what helps winning, when everybody's bought in and everybody's on the same page of wanting to win. I think that's just where it comes from."
Broome averaged 18.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 2.1 blocks per game in the 2024-25 season for the Tigers. He was named SEC Player of the Year as he dominated in the toughest conference in college basketball. His personality is all about winning as he had a ton of success in college that he hopes to bring to the NBA.
"I think I'll fit in great," Broome added. "I have a great personality. I love to laugh, I love to have fun, but I also love to compete, love to win. I'm going to compete on the court and going to be a little more fiery on the court, but off the court, in the locker room, I'm a good guy and fun guy to be around."
The good thing for Broome is that he won't be expected to lead the way for the Sixers. That responsibility falls to Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey as Philadelphia will look to its Big 3 in an effort to push forward in the 2025-26 season. Broome will just be looking to learn and develop into an elite NBA player at this level.
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