Braden Smith, a senior point guard for Purdue basketball, is making headlines as he approaches the NCAA record for career assists. Currently, with over 900 assists, Smith has played a pivotal role in leading Purdue to a remarkable 15-1 record this season. This achievement marks one of the best starts in the program’s history.
Unexpected Challenger Emerges for Purdue’s Braden Smith
While many players have attempted to disrupt Smith’s rhythm on the court, one unlikely challenger has been redshirt freshman guard Aaron Fine. Despite playing only 19 minutes this season, his defensive strategies pose a notable challenge to Smith. Purdue assistant coach PJ Thompson highlighted Fine’s tenacity, explaining that Smith often finds himself pushed to his limits when facing his own teammate.
Why Aaron Fine Chose Purdue
Fine made a strategic choice to join Purdue as a walk-on, motivated by the opportunity to compete against what he describes as the best player in college basketball. “It was enticing to know I can battle with Braden Smith for two years,” Fine remarked. He believes that practicing against a player of Smith’s caliber will significantly enhance his skills.
Development and Growth
Since joining the team, Fine has shown noticeable improvement. Previously known more as a scorer, he has developed into a more versatile player. Fine stated, “I feel a lot more comfortable with the ball in my hands. The game is slower. I am making better reads, better passes.” His high school performance included an average of 17.9 points and 3.4 assists per game, showcasing his potential from an early age.
Fine’s Journey and Future
This season, Fine has contributed nine points and two assists over seven games. His decision to redshirt last year was calculated; earlier Purdue walk-on Grady Eifert’s transformation into a starter during an Elite Eight run served as a source of inspiration for Fine. Coach Matt Painter acknowledged Fine’s dedication, noting that he continually seeks to improve through relentless practice.
Impact on the Team
- Fine has played in seven games this season.
- Contributions include nine points and two assists.
- His development is crucial for Purdue’s long-term success.
Despite the competitive landscape, Fine remains optimistic about his role. Coach Thompson praised Fine for his consistent contributions in practice, emphasizing the importance of players like him in achieving the team’s goals. Although Fine may not make a significant impact during games this season, his commitment to improving and supporting his teammates is evident.
As Braden Smith continues his pursuit of college basketball history, the emergence of challengers like Aaron Fine adds an intriguing dynamic to the Purdue basketball program.
