Purdue basketball is entering the 2025-26 season with high expectations, and much of the spotlight is on Braden Smith, the nation’s top point guard.

Now, with the addition of Omer Mayer, the Boilermakers are poised to give Smith some much-needed support on the court.

Mayer Expected To Lighten the Load for Smith

Smith had a historic 2024-25 campaign, averaging 15.8 points, 8.7 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.2 steals per game while earning consensus first-team All-American honors, the Bob Cousy Award, and Big Ten Player of the Year accolades.

In a recent interview, Boilermakers forward Trey Kaufman-Renn emphasized how Mayer’s arrival will benefit Smith, particularly as the team heads into the grueling Big Ten schedule and potential March Madness run.

“I think it’s really going to be big time,” Kaufman-Renn said. “Getting Braden off the ball as much as possible is going to be really big because he’s so special on the court. He’s one of the best point guards we’ve seen in college basketball.”

The forward highlighted Mayer’s versatility and skill set, noting that while Mayer is still learning the Purdue system, he has already made significant strides.

Mayer’s ability to handle the ball, create plays in short rolls, and contribute as an off-ball threat will allow Smith to focus on his natural playmaking and scoring strengths without being overburdened.

Braden Smith’s Historic 2024-25 Season

Smith’s numbers from last season speak for themselves. He led Purdue in minutes played (1,333) and three-pointers made (83). He also set the Big Ten record for assists in conference play with 175, breaking Cassius Winston’s previous record of 157.

Smith also became just the second player in NCAA history to record at least 550 points, 300 assists, and 150 rebounds in a single season, joining Murray State’s Ja Morant (2018-19). And, he added 78 steals to his remarkable stat line.

Smith’s performance has positioned him as one of the elite point guards in college basketball, with some comparing him to the likes of Duke legend Bobby Hurley. The Boilermakers’ coaching staff and teammates recognize that supporting such a high-usage player requires depth, and Mayer’s arrival could be the perfect solution.

Mayer’s International Experience

Mayer comes to Purdue with impressive international experience. During the FIBA U19 World Cup in Switzerland, Mayer averaged 20.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 2.0 steals per game for Team Israel.

Braden Smith going off the glass to Omer Mayer.

📸 (@BoilerBall – Instagram).

3️⃣↪️1️⃣7️⃣ pic.twitter.com/DmXPY8zHa0

— Boiler Burner (@BoilerBurner1) August 27, 2025

He ranked second in scoring and tied for ninth in steals during the tournament, including a standout 33-point performance in a comeback win over Cameroon. This experience has prepared Mayer to contribute immediately and share the offensive load alongside Smith.

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With Mayer providing scoring, playmaking, and defensive versatility, Purdue’s backcourt suddenly becomes one of the most dynamic in college basketball. Smith can operate more freely as a facilitator while Mayer steps up as a scoring threat and secondary ball-handler, giving the Boilermakers a balanced attack that can challenge any Big Ten opponent.

As Purdue prepares for the 2025-26 season, the combination of Smith and Mayer could elevate the Boilermakers to new heights. Mayer’s presence is expected to ease the workload on Smith, allowing the star point guard to maximize his impact and lead Purdue with efficiency, skill, and championship aspirations.

Fans should be excited to see how this partnership transforms Purdue’s offense in the coming season.