Purdue fans, rejoice—Braden Smith is back. The senior guard and unquestioned leader of the Boilermakers is returning for one final run in West Lafayette, bringing with him a fierce competitive spirit, a high basketball IQ, and unfinished business.
Smith’s decision to come back is a major boost for a Purdue squad still reeling from a heart-wrenching loss in the NCAA Tournament. As the team’s floor general, Smith has been the engine behind one of the most efficient offenses in the country. His return ensures that Purdue will once again have elite guard play—something that’s become a signature of Matt Painter’s system.
Last season, Smith averaged 12.5 points, 7.5 assists, and 5.2 rebounds per game, solidifying himself as one of the top all-around point guards in college basketball. But it’s not just the stats that define him—it’s the poise, the vision, and the command he brings to every possession. His ability to control tempo, find shooters, and run the pick-and-roll with precision makes him invaluable.