The top-seeded Auburn men's basketball team is on fire in the NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament, starting with a commanding win over Alabama State in the opening round. Their momentum continued with a victory against Creighton, propelling them to the Sweet 16. But amid the March Madness buzz, one voice stood out: Auburn basketball legend Charles Barkley.

Barkley, who has been entertaining fans with his sharp commentary during the tournament broadcasts, had high praise for Johni Broome, one of Auburn's current stars. According to Barkley, Broome has the potential to carve out a legacy even greater than his own — provided he can lead Auburn to their first-ever national championship.

"If he can finish the journey, I would say he's the greatest player in Auburn basketball history," Barkley said during Thursday's telecast. "I truly mean that. What he's done for the program, him and Coach [Bruce] Pearl and those guys, has been incredible. But if they could win a national championship, listen man, it'd be great."

And Barkley isn't just throwing around compliments lightly. He even referenced Auburn's historic run to the Final Four in 2019, calling it the program's best season to date. Yet, he suggested that a championship win would elevate Broome to a level that surpasses all past achievements, including his own college career. "He's better than me in college," Barkley admitted. That's a rare thing to hear from Sir Charles, who's never been short on self-confidence.

There had been some skepticism surrounding Auburn heading into the tournament, thanks to a shaky end to the regular season. Losses to Texas A&M and Alabama, followed by a tough defeat to Tennessee in the SEC Tournament semifinal, had cast doubts. But Barkley was quick to defend the Tigers, pointing out the strength of their opponents. "They didn't lose to Providence," he quipped. "They lost to three schools that were ranked in the top 10-to-15. ... They lost to Alabama at the buzzer, and they're a No. 2 or 3 seed. That's why I'm not concerned." Gotta love the subtle shade he threw at Providence there — no hard feelings, Friars fans.

Now, Auburn is set for a showdown with the fifth-seeded Michigan Wolverines in the Sweet 16 on March 28 in Atlanta. The stakes couldn't be higher, and the spotlight on Broome is only growing brighter. If he can deliver, maybe Barkley's bold prediction will come true. One thing's for sure: Auburn fans will be watching with bated breath.

Auburn University News

Charles Barkley Maps Out Path for Johni Broome to Become 'Greatest Player in Auburn Basketball History'