Braden Smith, the talented guard from Purdue University, has been named a unanimous preseason All-American for the upcoming college basketball season. This recognition comes after an impressive season in which Smith played a crucial role in leading the Boilermakers to the national championship game in 2024. His decision to return to Purdue, following a potential opportunity to enter the NBA draft, underscores his commitment to the program and aspirations for another championship run.
The announcement by The Associated Press, released on Monday, highlighted that Smith secured all 57 votes from a media panel. This accolade follows Purdue being ranked No. 1 in the AP Top 25 for the first time in history, a significant achievement for the program. Smith is positioned among a strong group of players on the preseason All-America first team, which includes notable talents like JT Toppin from Texas Tech, who received 52 votes, and Michigan’s Yaxel Lendeborg, who garnered 30 votes.
Smith’s Impact and Achievements
Since joining Purdue in the 2022-23 season, Smith has established himself as one of the most productive guards in college basketball. Standing at 6 feet, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to impact games. Last season, he became the first player in NCAA history to achieve at least 550 points, 300 assists, 150 rebounds, and 75 steals in a single season. Smith averaged 15.8 points, 8.7 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.2 steals per game, contributing significantly to the team’s success as they advanced to the Sweet 16.
Reflecting on his journey, Smith remarked, “That’s just how Purdue has always been, how every player has always been. Coach Painter recruits players with the same mindset. We always want to be part of a program like this, a culture like this.”
Notable Players Joining the All-American Roster
Smith is not the only standout player receiving recognition this preseason. JT Toppin, who transferred to Texas Tech from New Mexico, had a remarkable first season, averaging 18.2 points and 9.4 rebounds per game. His efforts helped propel the Red Raiders to the Elite Eight, where they faced eventual national champion Florida. Toppin was named a second-team AP All-American and the Big 12 Player of the Year before choosing to return to Texas Tech.
Additionally, Yaxel Lendeborg, who had a successful tenure at UAB, transferred to Michigan after testing the NBA waters. He played a pivotal role in leading the Blazers to the 2024 NCAA Tournament. Lendeborg aims for a shot at the Final Four with the Wolverines, who earned a No. 7 ranking in the preseason poll. During his time at UAB, he joined the elite company of Indiana State’s Larry Bird by becoming one of the few players to record 600 points, 400 rebounds, and 150 assists in a season.
BYU is also making headlines with the arrival of AJ Dybantsa, the nation’s top recruit. The 6-foot-9 forward chose to play for the Cougars, significantly raising expectations for the team after their Sweet 16 appearance last season.
Meanwhile, Florida’s Alex Condon, who initially declared for the NBA draft, opted to return for another season. The Australian averaged 10.6 points and 7.5 rebounds per game while leading his team with 49 blocked shots. His performance in the national championship game against Houston was pivotal, contributing to Florida’s 65-63 victory.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on these talented players as they compete for collegiate glory and aim to further solidify their legacies in the sport.
