Last month, the 2025 NBA Draft took place at the Barclays Center in New York, and one former Auburn basketball player was selected.
Former Auburn superstar Johni Broome was selected in the second round as the 35th overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers. Broome began his collegiate career at Morehead State before transferring to the Plains ahead of the 2022-23 season. He averaged 18.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 2.1 blocks per game this past season and was a candidate for National Player of the Year.
But Broome isn't the only Tiger who will be taking his talents to the league. Following the draft, several Tigers signed contracts with teams.
Some players signed two-way deals, which allows them to be signed simultaneously with the NBA team and its G-League affiliate to work on their development. There are also Exhibit 10 contracts, which is a one-year, minimum salary deal that is not guaranteed. They allow teams to bring in players for training camp to try for a two-way or standard contract before the season.
The first was big man Dylan Cardwell, who signed a two-way contract with the Sacramento Kings. Cardwell spent all five years of his collegiate career with Auburn basketball and was a key starter on last year's Final Four team.
Miles Kelly also signed a two-way contract with the Dallas Mavericks. Though he spent only one season on the Plains, Kelly was a fan favorite and a fantastic shooter for the Tigers.
Chaney Johnson has signed an Exhibit 10 deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and he will work to earn a more substantial contract before the season starts. Johnson spent two seasons on the Plains after transferring from the University of Alabama at Huntsville.
Last but not least, Denver Jones will join Johnson and the Cleveland Cavaliers with an invite to the summer league. Jones will have the opportunity to earn a contract with the Cavs and attract the attention of other NBA teams this summer.