Painter rules out return of departed stars as Purdue rebuilds roster
Purdue head coach Matt Painter has confirmed he will not re-sign Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer, or Trey Kaufman-Renn, citing commitments to current players and the pursuit of lucrative professional opportunities.
Purdue Boilermakers head coach Matt Painter has stated that he would not bring back departed stars Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer, or Trey Kaufman-Renn for the 2026-27 season, even if the players sought additional eligibility under recent NCAA rules changes. Painter made the comments on the "Inside College Basketball" podcast, noting that while he would not begrudge any of the trio applying for more eligibility, the decision would not be made with Purdue in mind.
The three players departed after becoming the recruiting class with the most wins in program history, combining for more than 5,400 points and a 117-32 record. Painter explained that current players have been promised their turn, a commitment he is keen to honour. "The other two guys, there's just no way we could take them back because these other guys, it's their turn," Painter said. "You've given them that word."
Painter expressed full support for the players pursuing financial opportunities elsewhere, stating that he would not be against any of them going somewhere else if the money was extreme. Smith is currently with the Indiana Pacers, Loyer is set to enter training camp with the Los Angeles Clippers, and Kaufman-Renn was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves. The coach acknowledged that the recent stability in his program allows him the luxury to avoid bidding wars for high-profile transfers.
Turning his attention to the 2026-27 roster, Painter highlighted the strengths of his new backcourt. The group includes returning players C.J. Cox, Gicarri Harris, and Omer Mayer, alongside redshirted Antoine West Jr. and Indiana Mr. Basketball Luke Ertel. Painter noted that the team could deploy three point guards at times, a configuration he values for its physicality.
The primary concern for the coach remains inside physicality and rebounding. Purdue retains significant height with Daniel Jacobsen and Raleigh Burgess returning to the roster. To address this need, the Boilermakers have added 6-9 French forward Enzo Shahrvin, who is known for his rebounding ability. Painter believes Shahrvin will help Purdue keep up with Big Ten rivals such as Michigan, Michigan State, and Illinois.
Painter’s assessment of the team’s national contender status is conditional on their performance on the glass. "Can we compete at a high level on the glass in the Big Ten? I think if that answer is yes, we can stay at a (national contender) level," Painter said. "If not, you're going to battle that possession more."
