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Braden Smith's Return Solidifies Purdue's Championship Ambitions

The All-American guard and Bob Cousy Award winner announced he will return for his senior season, positioning Purdue as a top contender for the 2025-26 NCAA title.

Mar 28, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Purdue Boilermakers guard Braden Smith (3) reacts after the game against the Houston Cougars during a Midwest Regional semifinal of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images/File photo
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Overview

  • Braden Smith, Purdue's star guard and consensus first-team All-American, has announced his decision to return for his senior season.
  • Smith's return enhances his status as the preseason favorite for the Wooden Award, following a record-breaking junior season.
  • In the 2024-25 season, Smith averaged 15.8 points, 8.7 assists, and 2.2 steals, winning the Bob Cousy Award and breaking multiple NCAA and Big Ten records.
  • Purdue, ranked No. 2 in early preseason polls, sees its national championship odds improve significantly with Smith's leadership and the return of key players like Fletcher Loyer and Trey Kaufman-Renn.
  • Smith's decision highlights the growing impact of NIL opportunities in retaining top college basketball talent for additional seasons.