“J.A.B. Five.” That’s what Johni Broome’s family calls themselves — all with the same three initials. As Johni has emerged as a top name in college basketball in a power forward and center role for Auburn, his family has been backing him every step of the way. In particular, his parents, John and Julie Broome. Their parenting methods and overall support have all been key factors in Johni’s development into a National Player of the Year candidate!
When Johni joined Auburn in 2022, he knew he was landing in one of the country’s most prolific programs. He eventually became the first Auburn player ever to be picked to the All-American First Team. By March 2025, he was SEC Player of the Year, a status his parents knew he would reach! So, now let’s discover the family that’s served as Johni’s supporting cast on his run to the NCAA’s highest honors.
Who is Johni Broome’s Mother, Julie Broome? Does she have a sports background?
As Johni’s hoop career blossomed, Julie was there on the sidelines to cheer him on. She was his biggest and most vocal fan. In 2024, she encapsulated her son’s competitive mentality in her words: “He’s the biggest dog. Everybody’s smaller than big dog… I know my son. I know the hard work and dedication he’s put in. I know his resilience. I know his integrity, his game — and he doesn’t stop.”
Julie isn’t just a proud mom. She knows the game. As someone who has coached college basketball at Jacksonville State University and played professionally in Germany, she has given Johni more than emotional support. She’s given him guidance with the type of basketball IQ one only obtains from years of hooping at a high level.
What’s also interesting is the unique name Johni’s parents gave him—pronounced “JUH-nye.” It wasn’t just a random name, though.
NCAA, College League, USA Basketball: Missouri at Auburn Jan 4, 2025 Auburn, Alabama, USA Auburn Tigers forward Johni Broome 4 reacts after making a three-point basket against the Missouri Tigers during the first half at Neville Arena. Auburn Neville Arena Alabama USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xJohnxReedx 20250104_tbs_sr5_370
“It honestly is always a conversation, and it’s always been mispronounced,” Julie once said. “It’s John-i. Johni. When you say it together, it’s just John-i. … I think, sometimes, people put too much emphasis on it, or it’s just where they’re from or what their accent is.”
Julie and John wanted to give their son his ‘own’ identity, something that would differentiate him while keeping the family connected.
Who is Johni Broome’s Father, John Broome?
John has been an instrumental figure. He was an athlete himself, but it was baseball, not basketball! His career as a player at Alabama State is not well known, but his personal experiences were influential in the approach he took when it came to his son. College recruiters overlooked Johni despite recording 19.6 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game in high school.
But Broome remained positive and stood by his son, telling him: “Just keep your head down and keep working. Eventually, the offers will come.” This unrelenting encouragement in the face of rejection paid off. His support was validated as Johni’s career took off, and all that uncertainty disappeared.
Who are Johni Broome’s siblings? Are they athletes too?
Johni Broome wasn’t alone in starting his athletic journey. Alongside him were his two older siblings, brother, John Broome Jr. and sister, Jade’a, who were an integral part of his development. John Jr. was an athlete, albeit on a different track. He played football at Florida International University. And on the other hand, Jade’a completed the family trio.
The Broome family was a sports household that encouraged healthy competition. The Auburn star holds a close bond with his older brother, who is often referred to as his “best friend”.
Not much is known publicly about Jade’a’s history as an athlete. However, there is enough to say that the family was motivated by the desire to stay in the game. Together, the “J.A.B. Five” epitomized a distinctive family identity—robust in solidarity but also prioritized enabling each child to nurture their own gifts. It’s that balance of support and independence that allowed Johni to flourish!
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