A New Chapter for a Purdue Standout
Braden Smith, a Westfield native and former Purdue point guard, heard his name called in the 2026 NBA Draft, a moment that capped a college career that rewrote the record books.
The Chicago Bulls selected him with the 12th overall pick, immediately flipping him to the Indiana Pacers in a pre‑arranged trade that saw the team acquire the versatile guard for a package of future second‑round assets.
At Purdue, Smith shattered the NCAA assists record, a testament to his court vision and unselfish play, and capped the season by capturing the 2025 Bob Cousy Award, given to the nation’s top collegiate point guard.
Coaches and analysts alike have praised his basketball IQ, a mid‑range jump shot that can stretch defenses, and a defensive intensity that belies his 6‑2 stature, projecting him as a potential floor‑general for the Pacers’ young roster.
Local media, including IndyStar, have highlighted the excitement in Westfield, where the community has rallied around the prospect of seeing one of their own compete at the highest level.