Report: Auburn's Johni Broome (ankle) won't need surgery

The sprained ankle Auburn's Johni Broome suffered Saturday in a win over South Carolina isn't as bad as initially feared, and he won't need surgery, The Field of 68 reported.

Broome underwent an MRI on Sunday that showed the sprained left ankle. He is "likely to miss some time but it shouldn't be too many games," per the report..

After the 66-63 Southeastern Conference victory, Auburn coach Bruce Pearl told SEC Network that Broome had a "significant sprain."

Broome was injured when he defended a shot under the hoop by Collin Murray-Boyles that gave South Carolina a 47-45 lead with 13:45 remaining. He fell backward while defending the shot and his ankle landed on the foot of teammate Chaney Johnson.

After lying on the court for a few minutes, Broome was helped off the floor by two members of Auburn's support staff.

Broome, a 6-foot-10 fifth-year senior in his third season with No. 2 Auburn (15-1, 3-0 SEC), returned to court for the postgame prayer but required two teammates to assist him. He did not appear to put any weight on the ankle, which was wrapped.

Broome totaled six points and three rebounds on 3-of-11 shooting in 24 minutes before the injury. A 2024 All-SEC first-team selection and SEC Tournament MVP, Broome is averaging 17.9 points (fourth in SEC) and 10.7 rebounds (first in SEC).

--Field Level Media