Former Purdue Stars Joined NBA Training Camps

Braden Smith and Fletcher Loyer have secured roster spots following the conclusion of the NBA Summer League.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Basketball

Former Purdue Stars Joined NBA Training Camps

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Former Purdue standouts Braden Smith and Fletcher Loyer have signed with NBA training camp rosters. Smith joined the Indiana Pacers following an NBA Draft trade, while Loyer signed with the Los Angeles Clippers after his summer performance.

Why it matters

These placements reflect the professional transition of collegiate standouts into the NBA. While Smith and Loyer begin their professional journey, their move highlights the pipeline between collegiate basketball programs and the league.

Braden Smith concluded his NCAA career holding the record with 1,103 career assists, while Fletcher Loyer successfully converted 309 three-point field goals. These metrics underscore their production levels during their tenure in collegiate basketball.

The players

Braden Smith

He is a former Purdue standout who set an NCAA record with 1,103 career assists.

Fletcher Loyer

He is a former Purdue guard who finished his college career with 309 made three-point field goals.

Zach Edey

He is a 7-foot-4 center for the Memphis Grizzlies who has been cleared to play.

Trey Kaufman-Renn

He is a former Purdue player who was selected in the second round of the NBA Draft.

Oscar Cluff

He is a former collegiate player who signed a professional contract with Glint Korfez Basket in Turkey.

The details

Braden Smith and Trey Kaufman-Renn were selected in the second round of the NBA Draft, leading to Smith's move to Indiana. Additionally, Oscar Cluff has opted for international play by signing with Glint Korfez Basket in Turkey.

Four former Purdue standouts participated in NBA Summer League during July 2026.
This update regarding NBA training camp roster placements was published on September 28, 2026.
Trey Kaufman-Renn's NCAA eligibility case is ongoing for the 2026-27 season.

Season Trajectory

The transition of these players into training camps shifts the focus toward roster composition for the upcoming professional season. Their success in securing these spots alters the competitive landscape for rookies vying for limited bench roles in a league-wide talent race.

Zach Edey is cleared to return to the court for the Memphis Grizzlies and is expected to be ready for the regular-season opener. He enters the season following a rookie campaign where he averaged 9.2 points and 8.3 rebounds per game.

The takeaway

These roster signings highlight the high barrier to entry for collegiate players attempting to transition into professional basketball roles. Fans should monitor preseason depth charts to see which of these former stars successfully earn spots on final 15-man active rosters.