Braden Smith Sets NCAA Career Assists Record

Purdue University senior guard Braden Smith made history on March 17, 2026, by becoming the NCAA's all-time assists leader during the Boilermakers' first-round NCAA tournament game against Queens University. Smith achieved this milestone by recording his 1,077th career assist, surpassing the previous record held by Duke's Bobby Hurley, who had 1,076 assists from 1989 to 1993. The record-breaking assist came in the first half when Smith executed a bounce pass to senior forward Trey Kaufman-Renn, leading to a basket and a foul.

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Braden Smith, 22, has been a four-year starter at Purdue, a rarity in modern college basketball. He entered the NCAA Tournament averaging a career-best 9.1 assists per game, having amassed 317 assists prior to the tournament. His performance in the Big Ten Tournament, where he helped Purdue secure the conference title with a game of 14 points and 11 assists, propelled him from outside the top-50 on the all-time assists list to second place before breaking the record. Smith is also the only player in NCAA history to achieve at least 1,500 points, 1,000 assists, and 500 rebounds.

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In a pre-tournament interview, Smith expressed his gratitude for reaching this milestone, stating, "It's an awesome accomplishment... it means a lot. Obviously I've come a long way and it's been an unbelievable journey." Purdue fans celebrated the achievement with enthusiasm, as the announcement of Smith's record during the game prompted a significant ovation from the crowd.

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While Smith's achievement is celebrated, some critics point out the evolving nature of college basketball, suggesting that the emphasis on individual records may overshadow team success. However, Smith's consistent performance and leadership have been pivotal for Purdue, which has been a top-four seed in the NCAA Tournament for six consecutive years.

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• “Obviously I've come a long way and it's been an unbelievable journey.” — Braden Smith, Purdue Guard

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• “When the record-breaking moment finally came, the Purdue fans who made the trip to St.” — ESPN Report

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As Purdue continues its journey in the NCAA Tournament, Smith aims to lead his team to a national championship, building on his historic achievement. The Boilermakers, now a No. 2 seed, are looking to capitalize on their strong season and Smith's record-setting performance as they advance through the tournament.

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