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Purdue Sends Message After Braden Smith Announcement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Max Escarpio | Last updated Apr 10, 2025 4:53 PM ET

The Purdue Boilermakers rode the success of Naismith Player of the Year finalist Braden Smith all season.

Smith, who was a runner-up for the Naismith Player of the Year, won by Duke's Cooper Flagg, helped Purdue reach the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament.

Before losing to Houston, the national champion runner-up, Purdue defeated Gonzaga and SIU Edwardsville en route to the Sweet 16.

While they were unsuccessful in reaching the ultimate goal of hoisting the national title trophy or putting up a Final Four banner, they recently highlighted the incredible play of Smith.

"The best play here," Purdue posted.

The Boilermakers mentioned that Purdue is one of three teams with four consensus First Team All-Americans since 2017: Braden Smith, Zach Edey and Caleb Swanigan.

The best play here. pic.twitter.com/EgiA83EN6N
— Purdue Men's Basketball (@BoilerBall) April 9, 2025

During Smith's All-American season at Purdue, he ranked No. 2 in the nation in terms of average assists. Smith averaged 8.7 assists per game during his third season with the Boilermakers.

He also capped off the averaging 15.8 points and 4.5 rebounds per game.

Purdue continues to produce some of the best players in the country, led by head coach Matt Painter, who has established himself as one of the best coaches in college basketball.

Smith has also officially earned his name on a prestigious list, not only in Purdue basketball history but also in college basketball history.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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