What's Happening?
Braden Smith of Purdue has been named the CBS Sports Preseason Player of the Year for the 2025-26 college basketball season. Smith, a senior point guard, is recognized for his outstanding performance last
season, where he averaged 15.8 points, 8.7 assists, and 2.2 steals per game. His achievements include being the first player in NCAA history to potentially reach 1,500 points, 1,000 assists, and 500 rebounds. The awards also highlighted Joseph Tugler as the Defensive Player of the Year and Yaxel Lendeborg as the Transfer of the Year.
Why It's Important?
Smith's recognition underscores his significant impact on college basketball and highlights Purdue's strong position in the upcoming season. His achievements reflect the growing importance of player development and retention in college sports, as Smith represents a rare case of a player staying at one program for four years. The awards also emphasize the role of defense and player transfers in shaping competitive teams, showcasing the evolving dynamics of college basketball.
What's Next?
As the season begins, Smith's performance will be closely watched to see if he can maintain his high level of play and lead Purdue to success. The recognition may boost his prospects for a professional career, potentially influencing his decision to enter the NBA draft. The awards also set expectations for other players and teams, highlighting key players to watch and shaping narratives for the season.
