Purdue's Braden Smith Switches Jerseys, Leads Team to Big Ten Title

Boilermakers guard changes to No. 41 jersey, has big game in championship win over Michigan

Mar. 16, 2026 at 3:06am

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Purdue senior guard Braden Smith switched to a No. 41 jersey during the first half of the Big Ten Tournament championship game against Michigan, after ripping his usual No. 3 jersey in frustration over his recent shooting struggles. Smith went on to have a standout performance in the Boilermakers' victory, recording 14 points, 11 rebounds, and no turnovers, and was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Player.

Why it matters

Smith's jersey change and subsequent strong play highlighted his resilience and ability to bounce back from a rough stretch, helping Purdue capture the Big Ten title. The Boilermakers' championship run also showcased the team's depth and ability to adapt to adversity.

The details

Smith said he ripped his No. 3 jersey "fully with both hands like Superman style" out of frustration over his recent shooting woes, which included 2-for-8, 1-for-8, and 1-for-7 performances in Purdue's previous three tournament games. However, the change to No. 41 seemed to spark Smith, as he shot 6-for-12 from the field and played a crucial all-around game to lead the Boilermakers to victory.

  • Braden Smith switched to the No. 41 jersey during the first half of the Big Ten Tournament championship game on March 15, 2026.
  • Purdue defeated Michigan to win the Big Ten Tournament title on March 15, 2026.

The players

Braden Smith

A senior guard for the Purdue Boilermakers who switched to a No. 41 jersey during the Big Ten Tournament championship game and led his team to victory.

Purdue Boilermakers

The college basketball team that won the 2026 Big Ten Tournament championship.

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What they’re saying

“I ripped it (No. 3 jersey) fully with both hands like Superman style. I was really frustrated. A lot of misses these past four games, and I was really frustrated because I put a lot of time and work in. When you don't see the result, it gets to you. I figured I'd take it out on the jersey rather than take it out loud or to somebody else. That's kind of just what happens. Just frustration.”

— Braden Smith, Purdue Senior Guard

What’s next

Purdue will advance to the NCAA Tournament, where they will look to build on their Big Ten championship run.

The takeaway

Braden Smith's resilience and ability to bounce back from a shooting slump helped propel Purdue to the Big Ten title, showcasing the team's depth and mental toughness in the face of adversity.