Johni Broome’s Game-Winning Putback Leads No. 4 Auburn to Thrilling 83-81 Victory Over No. 5 Iowa State

In a dramatic turn of events, Johni Broome scored on a putback with just 1.2 seconds left to secure a stunning 83-81 win for No. 4 Auburn over No. 5 Iowa State in the Maui Invitational quarterfinals on Monday.

The game, held in Lahaina, Hawaii, saw Auburn trailing by as many as 18 points late in the first half. However, the Tigers mounted a remarkable comeback, fueled by Broome’s 21 points and 10 rebounds. Chad Baker-Mazara contributed significantly with 16 of his 18 points coming after halftime, while Tahaad Pettiford added 14 points. Denver Jones and Miles Kelly each scored 12 points for Auburn.

Iowa State, led by Keshon Gilbert‘s 23 points, dominated the first half with a 49-33 lead. Gilbert’s performance was impressive despite battling foul trouble, as he made eight of his 10 field goal attempts and six of his seven free throws. However, the Cyclones struggled in the second half, converting only 7 of 22 field goals after a strong first half where they made 18 of 31 field goals.

Auburn’s second-half resurgence included an 18-2 run that pulled them even at 53 with 13:51 remaining. The game remained intense, with Auburn tying it at 81 on a Kelly basket inside with 43 seconds left. Iowa State’s final possession ended in a turnover, giving Auburn the chance to win. After Denver Jones missed a layup, Broome tipped in the rebound to seal the victory.

The win marked Auburn’s second victory over a top-10 team this season and set them up to face the winner between Dayton and No. 12 North Carolina in the semifinals. Iowa State, meanwhile, will play the loser of that matchup.