Indiana Pacers announced the signing of local product Braden Smith, who will begin his professional basketball career with the team that grew up watching him on the court. The deal was finalized on July 7, 2026, and Smith is set to join the roster for preseason training.
Who is Braden Smith?
Braden Smith is a 22‑year‑old guard from Indianapolis who starred at Indiana University, averaging 15.2 points, 4.3 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game in his senior season. Known for his quick first step and perimeter shooting, he posted a 38% three‑point rate in college. The Pacers’ front office praised his defensive hustle, noting his ability to generate steals and contest shots in the paint.
How does the signing fit Indiana Pacers’ current situation?
The Pacers entered the 2026‑27 campaign after a 121‑133 loss to the Detroit Pistons on April 12, 2026 and have dropped four straight before snapping the skid with a win. Their recent form reads 1W‑0D‑4L (LLLLW, most recent first), underscoring a need for fresh scoring options. Coach Rick Carlisle believes Smith’s rookie energy can spark the second‑unit, especially when the team’s starters rest in the fourth quarter.
What can fans expect on the court?
Smith will likely see minutes off the bench as a combo guard, rotating with Tyrese Haliburton and Jeremy Lamb. Expect him to run pick‑and‑roll sets, look for open looks beyond the arc, and apply pressure on the ball. His college experience includes several 20‑point outings, and he recorded a career‑high 12 assists in a March 2025 game against Purdue.
What does this mean for the Pacers’ future?
Adding a hometown player gives the franchise a marketing boost and a narrative that resonates with Indiana fans. If Smith can translate his college shooting percentages to the NBA-aiming for at least a 35% three‑point clip-he could become a reliable floor spacer. The Pacers are also eyeing a playoff push; a steady bench scorer could be the difference in tight games that go to overtime.
And the rookie will join a locker room that includes veteran Myles Turner, who has mentored younger players on rebounding fundamentals. So far, Smith has embraced the role, saying he wants to “bring energy every night and make the crowd proud.” The Pacers hope his arrival marks the start of a new chapter as they chase a return to the Eastern Conference playoffs.
