Braden Smith is set to return for his fourth season at Purdue, entering the 2025–26 campaign as one of the top players in college basketball. The former three-star recruit from Westfield, Indiana, has developed into a star and is expected to lead the Boilermakers on a deep postseason run.
Named the Big Ten Player of the Year in 2024-25 and a consensus first-team All-American, Smith isn’t heading into battle alone. Purdue head coach Matt Painter has added talent through the transfer portal and the incoming recruiting class to bolster the team’s title hopes.
While preparing for what could be a championship season, Smith is also giving back to the game. He is hosting a youth basketball camp, offering kids a chance to learn from him and connect with one of college basketball’s best.
Smith promoted the camp on Instagram, sharing the following message:
The call to action to join the camp states:
"Join Purdue star and Westfield legend Braden Smith for his annual basketball camp at Pacers Athletic Center!"
The camp, which Smith highlighted as “Camp x Merch” experience, is scheduled for May 28 and promises a full day of skill development, games and exclusive merchandise. Kids in grades 1-8 will have the chance to participate in basketball drills, receive instruction directly from Smith and enjoy a fun-filled atmosphere.
Campers also will have the opportunity to meet Smith, get a photo and collect an autograph. Purdue- and Braden Smith-themed merchandise will be available on-site, making it a special day for young Boilermaker fans.
The six-hour camp gives parents a window for their own activities while their kids train with one of the best guards in the nation.
Reflecting on his experience running camps, Smith told the IndyStar earlier this spring: "It's good having people come out here in support, seeing fans that care about us. I grew up being at camps. I understand how it is."
Smith, the former Indiana Mr. Basketball, has appeared in 110 games for Purdue. Last season, he averaged an eye-catching 37 minutes per game while putting up 15.8 points and 8.7 assists. His leadership and endurance were crucial as the Boilermakers reached the Sweet 16, narrowly falling to Houston, 62–60. Smith played every minute of Purdue’s three NCAA Tournament games, averaging 12.3 points.
In his sophomore season, he helped lead the team to a 34-5 overall record and a 17-3 mark in Big Ten play. Purdue made it to the national championship game, where they fell to the UConn Huskies. That year, Smith averaged 12 points and 7.5 assists, frequently feeding star center Zach Edey in the post.
Now heading into his final college season, Smith returns to a loaded Purdue squad that is widely expected to contend for the 2026 national title. The Boilermakers have added two key transfers: Liam Murphy from North Florida and Oscar Cluff from South Dakota State.
With experience, talent and leadership on their side, the Boilermakers look ready to cut down the nets next April — and Braden Smith will be at the heart of it all, but only after he takes this opportunity to lead the next generation.
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