Braden Smith returning to Purdue for senior season

Braden Smith announced his return to Purdue for his senior season Monday.

Smith averaged 15.8 points, 8.7 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.2 steals in his junior season with the Boilermakers. The 21-year-old ranked second in assists per game among Division I players, behind Ryan Nembhard of Gonzaga (9.8).

Smith was honored with Big Ten Player of the Year and a consensus first-team All-American selection. He also won the Bob Cousy Award, given to the top men's point guard in the nation, and was a finalist for the Wooden Award.

Purdue reached the Sweet 16 of March Madness before losing on a last-second shot from Houston. The Boilermakers were defeated by UConn in the championship two seasons ago.