TOUCH DOWN FEW MINUTES AGO: Purdue mens basketball star point guard Braden Smith has been suspended and banned from basketball activities by NBA community as he tested positive of…..

In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball and NBA scouting communities, Purdue University’s standout point guard Braden Smith has been suspended indefinitely and banned from all basketball-related activities following a positive test for a banned performance-enhancing substance.

According to a joint statement released by Purdue Athletics and representatives of the NBA’s pre-draft oversight committee, Smith, who was widely projected as a potential first-round pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, tested positive during routine screening ahead of a team workout in Las Vegas.

“We are aware of the situation involving Braden Smith,” the statement read. “While we are still gathering details, the NBA maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding the use of prohibited substances. Effective immediately, Smith is suspended from all basketball activities pending further review.”

The specific substance has not yet been publicly identified, but sources close to the investigation suggest it falls under the anabolic steroid category — substances known for boosting strength and endurance, but strictly banned under NCAA and NBA anti-doping policies.

A Stellar Career in Jeopardy

Braden Smith was a cornerstone of the Purdue Boilermakers’ recent success. Known for his lightning-quick decision-making, elite court vision, and clutch shooting, Smith averaged 15.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game in the 2024–2025 season. He played a pivotal role in leading Purdue to another deep NCAA tournament run, earning All-Big Ten First Team honors.

Basketball analysts had pegged Smith as a breakout star in this year’s draft class, with several scouts comparing him to past elite floor generals like Steve Nash and Jalen Brunson.

What This Means Going Forward

Smith’s future is now uncertain. With the NBA Combine already in full swing and individual workouts scheduled across the next few weeks, this suspension could have significant implications for his draft stock — or even his eligibility altogether.

Legal and compliance teams from both the NCAA and NBA are said to be in contact with Smith’s representation. Under current rules, a confirmed violation involving performance-enhancing drugs can carry up to a one-year suspension from competition and possibly derail draft eligibility for the year.

Purdue Reacts

Purdue University has not issued a formal comment beyond acknowledging the report, though sources say head coach Matt Painter is “deeply disappointed” and “fully cooperating” with the investigation.

The Boilermakers, who were expected to reload for another championship run next season, now face the daunting task of filling the void left by their floor general — and managing the fallout of what could become a cautionary tale in college athletics.

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