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Purdue's Braden Smith defies size with NBA Draft Combine performance
TL;DR
Braden Smith, a 5-foot-10 point guard from Purdue, impressed at the NBA Draft Combine, showcasing skills that defy his size. His performance has drawn positive attention from scouts and former players alike.
Key points
- Braden Smith is 5-foot-10 1/4 and weighs 166 pounds
- Smith impressed scouts at the NBA Draft Combine
- He plays with skills that seem to defy his size
- Former player Jaden Bradley praised his performance
- Smith aims to prove measurements don't limit his potential
Mentioned in this story
Purdue basketball
NBA Draft CombineBraden SmithJaden Bradley
CHICAGO − Braden Smith knew the thing against him well before he showed up at the NBA Draft Combine.
He's 5-foot-10 1/4 and weighs 166 pounds.
Smith's job this week is in front of scouts and throughout numerous interviews with NBA teams.
Prove measurements don't define him. And he's done exactly that.
"He plays like he is 6-4, 6-5," said former Arizona guard Jaden Bradley, who faced Smith in the Elite Eight and was hounded defensively by the former Purdue basketball's four-year starting point guard during Wednesday's 5-on-5 combine scrimmage. "He is a tough-nosed guy. He can score it. He can really pass it. I played him throughout my college career and every time I play him, he just gets better and better."
Smith, a projected second-round pick, labeled himself as the best passer in this year's NBA Draft. Being the NCAA's career assists leader justifies Smith's belief.
You won't hear many disagreements from others at the combine.
"Me and Braden got to play together one time last year. He was in Evanston for whatever reason and we got to play on the same team," said Northwestern's Nick Martinelli. "It's an amazing thing to watch. You know, you're just running, and the ball ends up in your hands, and you're like, how the heck did that happen?"
Smith even included that in team interviews when comparing himself to current NBA players. He said he's taken bits and pieces from several players and incorporated them into his own skill set. But then, passing, there's no comp because Braden Smith is as elite as they come.
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Q&A
What are Braden Smith's measurements for the NBA Draft Combine?
Braden Smith is 5-foot-10 1/4 and weighs 166 pounds.
How did Braden Smith perform at the NBA Draft Combine?
He showcased impressive skills, playing as if he were 6-4 or 6-5, and received praise for his scoring and passing abilities.
Who praised Braden Smith's performance at the combine?
Former Arizona guard Jaden Bradley praised Smith, highlighting his toughness and improvement over time.
What is Braden Smith's role in the NBA Draft Combine?
Smith's role is to demonstrate that his measurements do not define his capabilities as a player in front of NBA scouts.
