Former Auburn Forward Chaney Johnson Makes NBA Debut

Johnson records 4 points, 1 rebound and 1 steal in 5 minutes with Brooklyn Nets

Mar. 10, 2026 at 10:50pm

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Chaney Johnson, a former forward for the Auburn Tigers men's basketball team, made his NBA debut on Monday night, recording 4 points, 1 rebound and 1 steal in 5 minutes of playing time with the Brooklyn Nets. Johnson was a key part of Auburn's Final Four team last season, though he was often overshadowed by teammates Johni Broome and Dylan Cardwell.

Why it matters

Johnson's NBA debut continues a trend of former Auburn players finding success at the professional level, following in the footsteps of recent Tigers like Broome, Miles Kelly and Sharife Cooper. His ability to contribute off the bench could make him a valuable asset for the Nets as they look to build a contending roster.

The details

In his NBA debut, Johnson knocked down two shots, including an impressive reverse layup. He signed a two-way contract with the Nets in December after going undrafted following his standout senior season at Auburn, where he averaged 9.1 points and 4.2 rebounds per game.

  • Johnson made his NBA debut on Monday, March 10, 2026.
  • He signed a two-way contract with the Nets in December 2025.

The players

Chaney Johnson

A former forward for the Auburn Tigers men's basketball team who made his NBA debut with the Brooklyn Nets.

Johni Broome

A former teammate of Johnson's at Auburn who has also found NBA minutes since leaving the Tigers.

Dylan Cardwell

Another former Auburn player who has signed a full-time NBA contract since playing with Johnson on the Tigers' Final Four team.

Bruce Pearl

The head coach of the Auburn Tigers men's basketball team, who utilized Johnson's defensive abilities to help the team reach the Final Four.

Miles Kelly

A former Auburn player who, like Johnson, Broome and Cardwell, has earned NBA minutes since leaving the Tigers.

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What they’re saying

“Chaney Johnson knocks down his first two buckets in his NBA debut!”

— Brooklyn Nets

What’s next

The Nets will continue to evaluate Johnson's performance and role within the team as he looks to earn more playing time and potentially a full-time NBA contract.

The takeaway

Johnson's NBA debut is the latest example of the talent and development of Auburn's basketball program under head coach Bruce Pearl, as another former Tiger has earned an opportunity to showcase his skills at the professional level.