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Westfield Today
By the People, for the People
Purdue's Braden Smith Chases Final Four Berth in Elite Eight Clash
The senior guard aims to extend his record-breaking career with a win over Arizona.
Mar. 28, 2026 at 6:07pm
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Braden Smith's record-breaking career reaches a climactic moment as Purdue battles for a Final Four berth.Westfield TodayPurdue's Braden Smith has been the steady hand guiding the Boilermakers for four seasons, rewriting the record books along the way. Now, with his college career on the line in the Elite Eight, the senior point guard is determined to keep playing and lead his team to the Final Four.
Why it matters
Smith has been the constant for Purdue, turning chaos into control and elevating the program to new heights. His career numbers and accolades - including becoming the NCAA's all-time assist leader - cement his legacy as one of the best point guards in college basketball history. This Elite Eight matchup against a tough Arizona team represents Smith's last chance to extend his storied career and reach the Final Four.
The details
Smith was not a highly touted recruit out of high school, but he immediately stepped in as Purdue's starting point guard as a freshman and has been the driving force behind the team's success ever since. His numbers have improved each season, culminating in a senior campaign where he's averaging nearly 9 assists per game. In the NCAA Tournament, Smith has continued to control the tempo and make winning plays, including a 16-point, 5-assist performance in the Sweet 16 win over Texas.
- Smith broke the NCAA's all-time assist record earlier in this year's tournament.
- Purdue faces Arizona in the Elite Eight on Saturday, March 30, 2026.
The players
Braden Smith
A senior point guard for Purdue who is the NCAA's all-time assist leader and a consensus All-American.
Matt Painter
The head coach of the Purdue Boilermakers, who has trusted Smith to run the team since his freshman year.
What they’re saying
“This is not just about chasing a Final Four. It is about extending something that has been years in the making.”
— Braden Smith, Purdue Senior Guard
What’s next
If Purdue defeats Arizona, they will advance to the Final Four in Houston, Texas on April 5, 2026.
The takeaway
Braden Smith's storied Purdue career has been defined by his steady leadership, record-breaking production, and ability to elevate the Boilermakers. This Elite Eight matchup represents his last chance to reach the Final Four and cement his legacy as one of the greatest point guards in college basketball history.
