A Fresh Face in South Bend
Notre Dame’s men’s basketball program has secured a significant addition for the 2026‑27 season, announcing that Braeden Smith will join the roster as a graduate transfer from Gonzaga.
Coach Micah Shrewsberry highlighted Smith’s blend of experience and poise, noting that the veteran point guard brings a proven track record of leadership and playmaking to the Fighting Irish.
Smith’s collegiate journey began at Colgate, where he earned Patriot League Player of the Year honors in 2024 and helped the Raiders to consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances in 2023 and 2024.
During his two seasons with the Bulldogs, he contributed 5.1 points, 3.6 assists and a 3.34 assist‑to‑turnover ratio in the 2023‑24 campaign, while also posting career averages of 9.7 points, 4.6 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game.
His 478 career assists place him among the top‑50 active players, and his 2.53 assist‑to‑turnover ratio ranks 18th, underscoring his efficiency as a floor general.
A Strategic Boost for the Fighting Irish
The coaching staff views Smith’s arrival as a strategic move that addresses the team’s need for a reliable playmaker, especially as the program prepares for a competitive schedule in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
With the new roster in place, Notre Dame aims to translate its recruiting momentum into on‑court results, targeting a deep run in the NCAA Tournament and a resurgence of the program’s national profile.