Johni Broome Mistakes Morgan Freeman for Random Fan
During a game on Saturday night, No. 16 Auburn star Johni Broome had a surprising encounter with a courtside fan that he initially mistook for a random Ole Miss supporter attempting to grab his jersey.
It wasn’t until later that Broome realized the fan was actually acclaimed actor and fervent Ole Miss fan, Morgan Freeman. Broome’s reaction was to quickly push the fan’s arm away, only to feel a sense of panic upon recognizing the fan’s true identity.
“I thought it was an Ole Miss fan grabbing my jersey, holding on to me,” Broome shared post-game. “I kind of got his hand off. I saw who it was, and I’m a big movie guy. I probably watched one of his movies on the plane coming here. But I realized it was him and I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, I’m a big fan. I’m sorry.’ He said, ‘Just keep playing.’
Freeman, a native of Memphis, Tennessee but a devoted Ole Miss supporter, reassured Broome and encouraged him to focus on the game.
Broome Apologizes to Freeman
Post-game, Broome made a point to approach Freeman a second time to convey his apologies.
“I came back out there again, and I’m just like, ‘I’m sorry, again,'” Broome recalled. “He said, ‘You all good. Just keep playing.’
“He’s a very good guy. Love him.”
Broome’s Stellar Performance Leads Auburn to Victory
Despite Ole Miss taking an initial 13-point lead, Auburn staged a remarkable comeback in the second half to secure a 91-77 win. The Tigers outscored Ole Miss 56-33 in the second half, shooting an impressive 22-of-30 from the field collectively. Jaylin Williams contributed 16 points, while Broome’s performance included 15 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. Throughout the season, Broome has maintained an average of 15.7 points and 8.8 rebounds with the Tigers.
The win marked Auburn’s second consecutive victory following a two-game losing streak, including a defeat against in-state rival No. 24 Alabama.
Auburn and Alabama are set to face off once again in Auburn on Wednesday night.