Lifestyle
Purdue’s Braden Smith Named Unanimous Preseason All-American

Braden Smith of Purdue University has been recognized as a unanimous preseason All-American by The Associated Press, solidifying his status following an impressive collegiate career. Having played alongside former teammate and national champion Zach Edey in the 2024 NCAA championship game, Smith chose to return for another season rather than pursue a career in the NBA, mirroring Edey’s decision. This commitment not only highlights his dedication to the team but also contributes to Purdue’s aspirations for another national title under the guidance of head coach Matt Painter.
Smith secured all 57 votes from a media panel for the preseason All-America team, which was announced on Monday. This recognition came just a week after Purdue earned the top spot in the AP Top 25 poll for the first time in the program’s history. Smith’s inclusion on the first team reflects his significant impact on the court, where he has consistently demonstrated his skills since joining the Boilermakers.
Record-Breaking Performances
Since his freshman season in 2022-23, Smith has emerged as one of the nation’s most productive guards. During the 2024 championship run, he averaged 12 points, 7.5 assists, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game while setting a school record for minutes played. His performance as a junior was even more remarkable; he became the first player in NCAA history to record at least 550 points, 300 assists, 150 rebounds, and 75 steals in a season. Last year, Smith averaged 15.8 points, 8.7 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.2 steals, leading the Boilermakers to the Sweet 16.
Reflecting on the culture at Purdue, Smith stated, “That’s just how Purdue has always been, how every player has always been. Coach Painter recruits players who think alike, and we always want to be part of a program like this, a culture like this.”
Notable Peers in the Preseason Rankings
Joining Smith on the All-American first team are several standout players. JT Toppin of Texas Tech received 52 votes, while Yaxel Lendeborg from Michigan garnered 30 votes. AJ Dybantsa, a highly touted freshman at BYU, received 22 votes, and Florida’s Alex Condon earned 16 votes. Each of these players has made significant contributions to their respective teams.
Toppin, a transfer from New Mexico, had an exceptional first season at Texas Tech, averaging 18.2 points and 9.4 rebounds per game. He played a vital role in leading the Red Raiders to the Elite Eight, where they faced eventual national champion Florida. His previous accolades include being named a second-team AP All-America and the Big 12 Player of the Year.
Lendeborg, who previously excelled at UAB, decided to transfer to Michigan after testing the NBA waters. He was instrumental in leading the Blazers to the NCAA Tournament in 2024. In his time at UAB, he averaged 15.8 points and 11 rebounds per game and received accolades as the American Conference Defensive Player of the Year for two consecutive seasons.
Dybantsa, the top recruit in the nation, is expected to make an immediate impact at BYU. After leading the Cougars to the Sweet 16 in his first season, he brings exceptional scoring ability and defensive skills, prompting significant interest from major programs across the country.
Condon, a 6-foot-11 forward from Australia, initially declared for the NBA draft after Florida’s national championship victory but later opted to return for another season. Last season, he averaged 10.6 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, showcasing strong performances in critical moments, including the national title game against Houston.
As the season approaches, excitement builds around these talented players and their teams. With a rich history and a culture of success, Purdue and its All-American guard Braden Smith are poised to make a strong run in the upcoming NCAA basketball season.
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