Dylan Cardwell may not always be the most talked-about player on Auburn’s roster, but his impact on the team’s success cannot be overstated
His defensive dominance, rebounding tenacity, leadership, and selfless play make him a crucial part of Auburn’s NCAA Tournament run.
With his name already etched in Auburn’s record books, Cardwell’s journey is far from over. As he continues to prove his worth, both in college and potentially at the professional level, one thing is clear—he is the kind of player every team needs to win.
Auburn fans, coaches, and teammates already know it, and soon, the basketball world may recognize it too.
The Auburn Tigers’ victory over Michigan State was a game filled with drama, heart, and unforgettable moments.
While Johni Broome’s resilience stood out as the highlight, Dylan Cardwell’s humorous take added an extra layer of entertainment to the occasion. As Auburn prepares for their Final Four matchup, one thing is certain: their journey has already provided fans with a story they won’t soon forget.
Whether it’s the clutch three-pointer, the roaring crowd, or Cardwell’s instant-classic commentary, this game will be remembered for years to come. Now, the Tigers look ahead, hoping to turn their dreams of a national title into reality.
Also Read: Auburn Center Dylan Cardwell’s Candid Thoughts on March Madness Defeat
Table of Contents
Dylan Cardwell’s Hilarious Take on Johni Broome’s Legendary Comeback
The Auburn Tigers’ journey to the Final Four has been nothing short of spectacular.1
Their matchup against Michigan State in the Elite Eight was a testament to their resilience and determination.
However, what made this particular game unforgettable was Johni Broome’s incredible comeback after suffering an injury.
While Broome’s heroics on the court were inspiring, it was teammate Dylan Cardwell’s humorous reaction that stole the spotlight in post-game discussions.
Before diving into the specifics of the game, it’s important to acknowledge Broome’s significance to Auburn’s success this season. Leading the team in points per game (18.7), rebounds (10.9), and blocks (2.1), he has been the cornerstone of Auburn’s offense and defense.
His impact on the team’s performance cannot be overstated, making his brief exit during the Elite Eight matchup a moment of concern for Auburn fans.
Auburn family, if you haven’t already please watch the video in the link below. I can’t verbalize how much Ashley’s testimony and encouragement impacted me and I share it with you all so you can cover her in prayer 🙏 https://t.co/LNNFrm1xVm pic.twitter.com/H171NBJ1zP
— Dylan Cardwell (@Dylanupnext__) March 27, 2025
The Injury Scare That Shook Auburn Fans
During the second half of the game against Michigan State, Broome suffered an apparent injury that forced him to leave the court and head to the locker room.
At that moment, the Tigers appeared vulnerable, and their Final Four hopes seemed in jeopardy. The tension in the arena was palpable, and Auburn fans held their breath, hoping their star player would return.
To the astonishment of everyone in attendance, Broome re-emerged minutes later, appearing determined to make an impact.
What followed was nothing short of cinematic—he secured a one-handed rebound and drilled a crucial three-pointer, swinging momentum back in Auburn’s favor.
His resilience and grit inspired the Tigers to close out a 70-64 victory, securing their place in the Final Four.
Dylan Cardwell’s Priceless Reaction
While Broome’s performance was already making headlines, his teammate Dylan Cardwell provided a hilarious take on the moment.2
Speaking to the media after the game, Cardwell’s candid and humorous reaction captured the sheer magnitude of Broome’s heroics.
“The biggest balls in balls history,” Cardwell exclaimed, as reported by sports writer Bryan Matthews. “He’s probably got blue balls. Excuse me. I’m sorry, I’m sorry, Lord. He needs a 30 for 30 on that shot alone.”
Cardwell continued, painting a dramatic picture of Broome’s return: “Going down, everyone and their mama in the crowd thought it was over. And he comes back out. You would have thought Derek Jeter came out for his last at-bat.
For him to knock down that three, I’ve never heard an arena that loud in my life.”
His amusing commentary quickly gained traction on social media, with fans and analysts praising both his humor and his recognition of Broome’s clutch performance.
The Impact of a True Team Leader
Beyond the jokes, Cardwell’s comments underscore the respect and admiration Broome commands within the Auburn squad.
A leader both on and off the court, Broome’s ability to rise to the occasion in such a high-pressure moment speaks volumes about his character.
His comeback wasn’t just a highlight reel moment; it was a defining statement about Auburn’s determination to compete at the highest level.
Auburn’s ability to persevere through adversity has been a common theme throughout the season.
Whether it’s bouncing back from tough losses or handling injuries to key players, the Tigers have displayed a mental fortitude that sets them apart from other teams.
This was evident in how they responded to Broome’s brief absence—rallying together and ensuring they stayed competitive until he returned.
Dylan Cardwell: Social Media’s Reaction
Cardwell’s post-game remarks quickly made waves across social media, with fans and sports personalities sharing their amusement.3
Some fans called for ESPN to actually produce a 30 for 30 documentary on Broome’s clutch shot, while others simply appreciated the candid nature of Cardwell’s interview.
Memes and highlight clips circulated rapidly, cementing this moment as one of the most entertaining post-game interviews in recent tournament history.
Every great sports team has defining moments that live on in history, and Broome’s heroic return will undoubtedly be one of them for Auburn basketball. Fans will look back at this game as a symbol of grit, perseverance, and unshakable belief.
Dylan Cardwell’s humorous yet heartfelt words will also be remembered as a testament to the camaraderie and spirit within the Auburn locker room. His comments encapsulated the raw emotion of the moment, making it even more memorable for fans.
What This Means for Broome’s Legacy
Broome has already established himself as one of Auburn’s all-time greats, but moments like these elevate his legacy even further.
Future Auburn players will look up to him as an example of perseverance and commitment to winning.
Should Auburn go on to win the national championship, his performance in the Elite Eight will be regarded as the turning point that propelled them to ultimate glory.
With their Elite Eight triumph behind them, Auburn now shifts focus to their Final Four matchup against the Florida Gators on April 5. The Gators, another No. 1 seed, have been dominant in the tournament, setting the stage for an epic showdown.
The Tigers will need Broome at his best, and his remarkable resilience against Michigan State suggests he’s ready for the challenge.
Also Read: Evan Mobley (Basketball): Contract Breakdown, Career Earnings and More
Dylan Cardwell’s Impact on Auburn’s NCAA Tournament Run
A Defensive Anchor in Auburn’s System
Auburn’s success in the NCAA Tournament has been fueled by its collective strength, but one player has been at the heart of the team’s cohesion and resilience—Dylan Cardwell.
While the spotlight often falls on prolific scorers like Johni Broome, Cardwell’s contributions cannot be measured solely by points.
His presence on the defensive end, his ability to disrupt opponents, and his leadership make him one of the most vital pieces in Auburn’s puzzle.
Bruce Pearl’s High Praise for Cardwell
Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl has been vocal about Cardwell’s importance to the team. Pearl has emphasized that the senior big man’s impact goes beyond traditional statistics.
“Dylan Cardwell blows away every analytic that’s out there. You can’t look at the stat sheet and think he’s going to lead in plus-minus, and he does all the time,” Pearl said per AL.com. “What does he do? He dominates the boards.
He’s the best defender on the floor. He doesn’t turn the basketball over.”
Pearl’s assessment highlights how Cardwell’s intangibles make Auburn a better team, even if he doesn’t light up the scoreboard. His defensive prowess and rebounding efforts contribute to Auburn’s ability to control the tempo of the game.
A Defensive Stopper and Rim Protector
Cardwell’s defensive skill set has made him indispensable. His ability to protect the rim, contest shots, and switch onto different players makes him an elite defender.
His shot-blocking ability not only deters opponents from attacking the paint but also sparks Auburn’s transition offense.
His presence in the paint forces opponents to take tough, contested shots, which often lead to defensive stops and fast-break opportunities for the Tigers.
Dylan Cardwell: Rebounding Dominance
Controlling the Boards
One of the most underrated aspects of Cardwell’s game is his rebounding. Pearl acknowledged that Cardwell is one of the best rebounders Auburn has seen, and the statistics back that up.
Cardwell consistently dominates the offensive and defensive glass, providing Auburn with extra possessions and limiting second-chance opportunities for opponents.
His tenacity in securing rebounds ensures that Auburn controls the pace of the game, keeping the team in a strong position to win.
The Ultimate Team Player
While some players chase individual stats, Cardwell’s game revolves around doing whatever it takes to help his team win. His willingness to set screens, dive for loose balls, and hustle on every play makes him an invaluable asset.
His teammates and coaching staff recognize that his contributions extend beyond scoring. Cardwell’s energy and commitment to the team’s success elevate the performance of those around him, creating a winning culture that Auburn thrives on.
Having joined Auburn’s program in 2020, Cardwell has grown into a leadership role. His experience in high-pressure situations allows him to be a calming presence for younger players.
His leadership extends beyond the court as well. In practices, Cardwell sets the tone with his work ethic and vocal presence, ensuring that the team remains focused and motivated throughout the season.
View this post on Instagram
The Plus-Minus King: A Stat That Tells the True Story
Despite not being a high-volume scorer, Cardwell leads Auburn in offensive rating with an impressive 133.5, ranking 12th in the nation according to KenPom.
The plus-minus statistic, which measures how the team performs when a player is on the floor, consistently favors Cardwell.
This means that when he is in the game, Auburn plays at a higher level, both offensively and defensively. His ability to make winning plays without necessarily scoring exemplifies his value.
While some may overlook Cardwell’s NBA potential due to his limited offensive output, Pearl believes he has a legitimate shot at playing at the next level.
“I think he’s got a chance to play in the NBA because he can score in the air, he can defend any position. He’ll rebound his position, and he can guard one through five,” Pearl said.
Versatility is a key trait in today’s NBA, and Cardwell’s ability to defend multiple positions while excelling in rebounding and rim protection makes him an intriguing prospect for professional teams.
Auburn’s Winningest Player: A Legacy Cemented
- Cardwell holds a special place in Auburn’s history, as he is the school’s all-time winningest player.
- Since joining the program, he has been a part of Auburn’s most successful runs, consistently contributing to the team’s deep tournament appearances.
- His legacy will not be defined by highlight-reel dunks or flashy scoring performances, but rather by his ability to do the little things that lead to wins.
- His selflessness and dedication to Auburn’s success have earned him the respect of fans, teammates, and coaches alike.
- Every championship-contending team needs a player like Dylan Cardwell—someone who embraces the dirty work, energizes his teammates, and makes winning plays when it matters most.
- While Auburn’s offensive stars grab the headlines, Cardwell’s behind-the-scenes impact has been just as critical to the team’s success.
- As the Tigers continue their NCAA Tournament journey, his role as a defensive anchor, leader, and rebounding machine will be key in their pursuit of a championship.
Also Read: Milos Uzan (Basketball): Who Is He? Bio, Wiki, Career, Playing Style and More
