Braden Smith’s “Kobe [Bryant] Corner” 3 Riles Up Fans and Purdue Crowd in Championship Game

A thrilling encounter between Purdue and defending champions UConn has the crowd on their feet. For Purdue, it’s their 6 ft point guard Braden Smith firing on all cylinders. The sophomore is at his offensive best on Purdue’s historic night at the University of Phoenix Stadium. Consequently, many are now drawing parallels between him and the legendary Kobe Bryant.

The game was moving at a brisk pace as only 5 points separated both teams. With just over two minutes to go in the first half, Smith perfectly launched the ball from beyond the arc and landed a stunning three. As a result, the gap was closed to just 2 points. Further, his efforts came in handy as the Boilermakers were neck-to-neck with the Huskies when the officials called the end of the opening half. The scoreboard read 36-30. At half-time, Smith had scored 9 points and grabbed 3 rebounds.

Unfortunately, things started to fall apart for Braden Smith and Purdue in the second half. The Huskies built on the lead and were successful in creating some breathing space. Moreover, apart from Smith’s long-range shot, none of the other players were able to score from beyond the arc (1 of 7). This affected them adversely and they couldn’t get themselves ahead on the night and ended up losing the contest. Still, the 6 ft guard finished the outing with 12 points, 3 rebounds, and 8 assists.

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Nonetheless, his long-range brilliance won the fans over.

Beyond-the-arc beauty from Braden Smith amazes fans

Soon after his Three Point Jumper, Purdue’s fans failed to keep their calm and are now flooding social media with jubilant reactions. One X user and a Purdue supporter thanked Smith for his scintillating display.

Meanwhile, another fan acknowledged his crazy efficiency from the long range.

This aggression by Braden Smith got everyone present at the University of Phoenix Stadium on their feet. Something similar was happening to all those who were following the game from their homes.

Also, some fans were using hilarious GIFs to convey their excitement to the shot.

Since it was the first three for Purdue, the official page of NCAA March Madness also thought it fitting to share the moment.

The dream of Braden Smith and Purdue may not have been fulfilled but there is no denying that the Boilermakers deserved to be in the Finals. The way they have performed in the entire March Madness is truly commendable. With multiple players heading out to professional basketball, how Braden Smith will lead them next season will be worth a watch.

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