Braden Smith has announced his decision to return for his senior season with Purdue basketball in 2025-26, foregoing the NBA Draft. With Smith back in the lineup, Purdue is poised to have a strong season ahead, bolstered by his accolades as Big Ten Player of the Year, All-American status, and previous awards such as the Bob Cousy Award.
Smith's return adds to the experienced core of seniors Trey Kaufman-Renn and Fletcher Loyer, along with returning starter CJ Cox, setting the stage for a competitive lineup. Additionally, Smith is on track to potentially tie the NCAA all-time assists record of 1,076, needing 318 assists in the upcoming season to achieve this milestone. His performance could make him one of only five players in Division I history to reach 1,000 career assists.