Braeden Smith, the anticipated successor to Gonzaga’s point guard legacy, is poised to play a crucial role in the 2025–26 season. Originally a redshirt transfer from Colgate and named the 2024 Patriot League Player of the Year, Smith trained last season in Spokane under Ryan Nembhard, renowned as the nation’s top passer and a key player behind one of Gonzaga’s most effective offenses. Now, the demanding role of leading the team is his to assume.
The excitement surrounding Gonzaga’s backcourt for the upcoming season is palpable, thanks to the addition of Adam Miller, the return of Steele Venters, potential commitment from Mario Saint-Supery, and the rising talent of Emmanuel Innocenti. However, this lineup remains largely untested, and establishing chemistry will be as critical as individual performances in determining the season’s success.
Fans can find reassurance in Smith’s background: he boasts two years as a starter in a successful mid-major program, a year of experience in Gonzaga’s renowned redshirt system, and guidance from Ryan Nembhard—the best mentor in the business. Although the learning curve may be steep, it’s not an unfamiliar challenge.
The Legacy of Nembhard
The 2024–25 season set an almost unattainable benchmark for Gonzaga point guards. Nembhard led the nation with an impressive average of 9.8 assists per game, totaling 344 assists—ranked fifth since NCAA records began in 1973. His influence was felt across various statistics, marking him as not just the best in Gonzaga’s history, but one of the greatest in college basketball.
Nembhard’s impact was evidenced by his top-ten rankings nationally in several categories, including assist-to-turnover ratio and assists per possession. He orchestrated an offense that ranked first in team A/TO and second in total field goals per game, distinguishing himself as a pivotal player for Gonzaga.
(It remains baffling that he was not a finalist for the Bob Cousy Award, given his effectiveness and the efficiency of the offenses he led. His exclusion was a significant oversight that he has sought to correct through his performances in the G-League and NBA Draft combines.)
Why Braeden Smith Matters
Before joining Gonzaga, Braeden Smith had already made a notable impact at Colgate, starting 70 consecutive games and winning Tournament MVP as a sophomore. In the 2023–24 season, he averaged 12.5 points, 5.6 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game, showcasing his effectiveness despite Colgate operating one of the slowest offenses in Division I.
Smith demonstrated remarkable skills, highlighted by his impressive assist rate and ability to navigate tight spaces. Although his three-point shooting statistic may not stand out, his shooting ability and offensive awareness are critical as he transitions to Gonzaga’s faster-paced system.
While he may not replicate Nembhard’s tactical precision within halfcourt settings, Smith brings urgency and adaptability, excelling during disorganized defensive situations. His assertiveness and knowledge of the game allow him to navigate challenges, particularly as he steps into a setup that encourages fluidity and instinctive play.
Turning the Page
Smith’s transition doesn’t signify a downturn; the redshirt year was strategically planned to prepare him for this demanding role. Gonzaga’s storied point guard history suggests that they can adjust to this new dynamic. His unique set of tools might be precisely what the team requires as it embraces a new tactical approach.
While the burden of expectation on Smith is significant, he arrives with a unique skill set that may facilitate a smoother transition into Gonzaga’s offense. With a formidable frontcourt and additional shooting options, Smith is expected to leverage his instincts to shape a dynamic and energetic offense.
