It would have been easy for Purdue standout guard Braden Smith to get down.
He has had games where he hasn’t shot the ball well. He has had moments that have been absolute head scratches, such as him being omitted from the Bob Cousy Watch List recognizing the nation’s top point guards.
And, through it all, Smith has just showed up, put in the work and made plays for his Purdue teammates, along with collecting victories.
After Purdue knocked off Northwestern, 105-96, in overtime Wednesday, Smith, who had 16 assists compared to just two turnovers, couldn’t help but smile.
“I’d rather win. It’s better memories, especially coming back with these guys and knowing all the work we’ve put in and what we’ve been through this year. That’s more important to me than some award,” Smith said.
Smith, a sophomore, has averaged 12.1 points per game, seven assists, 5.5 rebounds and just under two steals this season. His 16 assists against Northwestern led to 40 Purdue points and were the second most in Purdue program history.
His play only gave Purdue head coach Matt Painter more ammunition to use in arguing why Smith deserved to be mentioned among the nation’s best point guards.
“Bob Knight said basketball is watched by millions but understood by few. If you think he’s the 11th-best point guard in the country, I hope you get a job in the Big Ten. At least, we’ll get two wins.”
What makes Smith special?
As for what makes Smith special, Painter says it is a lot.
“He’s fabulous. He’s got great vision. He sees things. He sets guys up for threes and he understands what we’re doing and what we’re looking for. Braden is a really good player,” Painter said.
Smith’s play has also won him fans from opposing teams, as Northwestern coach Chris Collins noted how much Smith has improved.
“I am a big fan of Braden. You can tell he’s improved from last year. His decision making is much better. He runs their offense, and he’s good in their pick and rolls, and when you have that big guy running down the middle, it creates a lot of problems,” Collins said.
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