Braden Smith’s spectacular defensive play has been immortalised on a T-shirt. The Purdue basketball senior point guard’s creative assist during the Big Ten Tournament has been turned into an NIL opportunity.
Smith’s dive is emblazoned on a black T-shirt available through the Purdue NIL store. It was available for purchase Friday night at the United Center during the Big Ten Tournament.
Smith’s Assist Against Northwestern
Smith’s performance helped Purdue defeat Northwestern 81-68 in the third round of the Big Ten Tournament at United Center. Purdue continued play against Nebraska in the quarterfinals.
The play that inspired the new T-shirt came with under six minutes left in the first half. Smith poked a pass intended for Northwestern’s Nick Martinelli toward the sideline. Smith’s full extension Superman dive allowed him to volley it ahead to a sprinting Omer Mayer for a layup.
Smith Chasing Assist Record
Smith enters the game 32 assists shy of breaking Bobby Hurley’s NCAA career record of 1,076.
Sam King covers sports for the Journal & Courier.