In a shocking development that has sent ripples through the college basketball community, Purdue Boilermakers’ standout point guard Braden Smith has been suspended and banned from all basketball-related activities after testing positive for a banned substance, according to an official release from the NCAA this morning.
The announcement came just minutes before noon, and while further details are still emerging, sources close to the NCAA investigation confirmed that Smith’s routine drug screening returned a positive result for a performance-enhancing substance prohibited under NCAA bylaws. The test, reportedly administered last week as part of a standard offseason compliance protocol, raised immediate red flags among Purdue’s athletic compliance officers.
Smith’s Meteoric Rise Comes to a Halt
Braden Smith, a sophomore guard widely considered one of the most talented floor generals in college basketball, played a pivotal role in Purdue’s recent success. Known for his high basketball IQ, leadership on the court, and sharpshooting abilities, Smith averaged 12.7 points, 6.3 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game during the 2024–2025 season. He was instrumental in guiding the Boilermakers to the Elite Eight, earning him All-Big Ten Second Team honors and national attention as a potential NBA draft prospect.
His suspension marks a dramatic halt to what was shaping up to be a promising collegiate and potentially professional career.
NCAA’s Official Statement
The NCAA released a brief but firm statement confirming Smith’s suspension:
“Braden Smith, a student-athlete at Purdue University, has been temporarily suspended from all NCAA-sanctioned basketball activities following a confirmed violation of the NCAA Drug-Testing Program. Further proceedings will determine the duration of the suspension and any additional penalties.”
The exact substance found in Smith’s system has not yet been disclosed. However, under NCAA rules, a first-time offense for performance-enhancing drugs typically carries a minimum suspension of one calendar year from the date of the test and loss of a year of eligibility.
Purdue University’s Response
Purdue Athletics also issued a statement expressing disappointment and emphasizing the school’s commitment to compliance:
“We are aware of the NCAA’s decision regarding Braden Smith and take these matters very seriously. While we await further clarification and results of the formal appeal process, Braden will remain suspended from team activities. Purdue Athletics remains committed to the highest standards of integrity and compliance.”
Sources close to the university have indicated that Smith and his family plan to appeal the suspension, arguing that the substance in question may have been ingested unintentionally through a contaminated supplement.
Reaction from Teammates and Fans
Smith’s suspension has drawn a swift and emotional response from fans, teammates, and analysts. Social media lit up with messages of shock, support, and speculation, as many Purdue faithful voiced disbelief over the news.
Teammate Fletcher Loyer posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Braden is one of the hardest-working and most disciplined guys I know. Praying for him right now — we all make mistakes. Hope the truth comes out soon.”
The Boilermakers now face uncertainty as they prepare for offseason training and recruitment efforts. With Smith sidelined, Purdue will need to identify a new floor leader as head coach Matt Painter adjusts the team’s plans moving forward.
Looking Ahead
While this suspension is a major setback for Smith and the Purdue program, it also raises broader questions about education around supplement use, testing protocols, and the pressures placed on student-athletes to perform.
Pending the outcome of the appeal, Smith’s future remains uncertain. If the suspension is upheld, it could significantly impact his draft stock and force him to either transfer or declare for the NBA under a cloud of controversy.
Regardless of what unfolds next, today’s news marks a significant moment not only for Braden Smith but for the wider conversation around accountability and support in collegiate athletics.