Braden Smith Joins Purdue Basketball Legends
WEST LAFAYETTE – Braden Smith, the standout point guard for the Purdue Boilermakers, has cemented his place among the program’s elite. On Tuesday, Smith was named First-Team All-Big Ten, an achievement that places him in a select group of Purdue basketball players not seen in over half a century.
This marks the third consecutive First-Team All-Big Ten recognition for the senior, following his impressive run as last year’s Big Ten Player of the Year. Smith is the first Boilermaker since Rick Mount (1968-70) to achieve this remarkable three-time honor.
A Legacy of Excellence
Smith now stands as the seventh player in Purdue history to earn at least three First-Team All-Big Ten selections, joining a distinguished list that includes:
- Dave Schellhase (1964-66)
- Terry Dischinger (1960-62)
- Paul Hoffman (1944-47)
- John Wooden (1930-32)
- Charles “Stretch” Murphy (1928-30)
The recognition comes from both the media and coaches, solidifying Smith’s impact on the court. He shares the First-Team honors with Yaxel Lendeborg (Michigan), Keaton Wagler (Illinois), and Jeremy Fears (Michigan State). Pryce Sandfort (Nebraska) was a coach’s selection, while Bennett Stirtz (Iowa) earned the nod from the media.
Cousy Award Finalist and Record Chase
Adding to his accolades, Smith was named a finalist for the prestigious Bob Cousy Award on Monday – an award he won last season as the nation’s top point guard. He’s one of five finalists vying for the honor.
Heading into the postseason, Smith boasts impressive season averages of 14.9 points, 8.7 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.8 steals. In conference play, he elevated his game, averaging 16.5 points, 8.4 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.9 steals.
Currently leading the Big Ten in all-time assists, Smith has accumulated an astounding 1,029 assists throughout his career. He is just 48 assists shy of surpassing the NCAA career record held by Duke legend Bobby Hurley. You can follow his journey and stats on the NCAA official website.
Sam King covers sports for the Journal & Courier. Email him at sking@jconline.com and follow him on X and Instagram @samueltking.
