Purdue All-American Braden Smith will not explore return to college basketball after new eligibility ruling

Purdue All-American Braden Smith, a second-round draft pick selected by the Indiana Pacers, has decided he will not take advantage of a new NCAA eligibility ruling to return to college basketball. Despite not yet having signed a rookie contract with Indiana, Smith is moving forward with his professional career. The decision comes amid broader discussions about expanded eligibility rights for players drafted in later rounds.