Purdue point guard Braden Smith was selected 38th overall by the Chicago Bulls in the 2026 NBA Draft before being traded to the Indiana Pacers. This marks a significant achievement as he is the first Purdue point guard drafted since 1988. Smith, who started his college career ranked 216th among recruits, capped his collegiate tenure as one of the most statistically dominant players in NCAA history, highlighted by his record-setting career assists. His selection signifies both a personal milestone and a continued legacy for Purdue basketball under coach Matt Painter.

By the Numbers
  • Smith averaged 14.3 points, 8.8 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.7 steals in his senior season.
  • He finished his career with 1,103 assists, becoming the NCAA鈥檚 all-time leader in that category.
  • Smith鈥檚 assist total ranks fifth all-time for a single season in NCAA history with 345 assists.
State of Play
  • Smith's move to the Pacers keeps him in Indiana, adding local fanfare to his professional debut.
  • This selection expands Purdue's representation in the NBA with a total of seven players drafted since 2016.
  • As a draft choice under coach Matt Painter, Smith joins an elite list of past and present Purdue players who have made it to the professional level.
What's Next

As Smith transitions to the NBA, expectations from both fans and the Pacers will be high. His ability to integrate into the team's system and maintain his performance standards will be crucial in determining his success at the professional level. Observers will be keen to see how he adapts to the physical demands and competitive atmosphere of the NBA.

Bottom Line

Braden Smith's selection and subsequent trade to the Pacers is not just a testament to his exceptional talent but also a pivotal moment for Purdue basketball. His record-breaking career establishes him as a significant player to watch in the NBA, and his journey is emblematic of the program's evolving legacy in producing top-tier talent.