Indiana Pacers Select Purdue’s Braden Smith in NBA Draft

The Indiana Pacers faced the challenge of having only one pick in this year’s NBA draft. With their sole selection at No. 28, predicting the available players proved difficult.

The Pacers chose wisely, selecting point guard Braden Smith from Purdue. Commentator Cameron Salerno of CBS Sports awarded the decision a B grade. Some argue that the score could be higher given Indiana’s history of successfully developing point guards.

“Indiana has had success developing point guards in its system,” Salerno notes. “Smith excelled as a floor general during his college career at Purdue. He might quickly earn a spot in the rotation back in his home state. Additionally, he provides depth behind Tyrese Haliburton, who missed the 2025-26 season due to a torn Achilles.”

Braden Smith: An Underrated Talent

Braden Smith brings something special. He was among those players who could have been drafted earlier but was underestimated.

At Purdue, Smith led the NCAA in assists. Many expected this to elevate his draft position, but scouts were deterred by his height of under six feet. This is considered short for today’s point guards.

Yet, players like Jalen Brunson demonstrate that size isn’t everything in the NBA. Smith appears to be an ideal fit for the Pacers. Returning to his home state, he is set to make an impact.