Written By: Adrian Beecher
GLENDALE, AZ – In a heart-wrenching finale to an otherwise stellar season, the Purdue Boilermakers faced defeat against the No. 1-ranked UConn Huskies, losing 75-60 in the National Championship game. The event, witnessed by 74,423 fans—the third-largest crowd in championship history—marked the end of Purdue’s quest for its first-ever national title.
The Boilermakers concluded their season with a commendable 34-5 record, setting a new school record for most wins in a single season. The senior class, which includes notable players like Zach Edey, Mason Gillis, Ethan Morton, Lance Jones, Chase Martin, and Carson Barrett, ended their collegiate careers with an impressive 110-29 overall record, making them the winningest senior class in Purdue history.
Despite the defeat, individual performances shone brightly, particularly that of Zach Edey. Edey’s monumental effort in the championship game tied for the fourth-highest points scored in such a game’s history with 37 points. His 177 points throughout the NCAA Tournament tied for the second most ever, showcasing his undeniable impact on the court.
Edey’s season has been one for the books. His 983 points and 474 rebounds this season placed him among the likes of NCAA legends, making him one of only two players to finish a year with such staggering numbers. Additionally, his 436 free throw attempts this season tied him for the second-most in NCAA history. Edey’s dominance was further highlighted by his 30 double-doubles throughout the season, tied for the fourth most in a single NCAA season.
Supporting Edey, Braden Smith made his mark by setting a new Big Ten record with 292 assists, surpassing the previous record held by Michigan State’s Cassius Winston. Smith’s performance not only contributed significantly to Purdue’s offensive flow but also cemented his legacy within Big Ten history.
The Boilermakers’ journey to the championship was notable for their resilience and determination. Despite the loss, their record-breaking season, marked by a 10-1 tally against nationally-ranked teams, demonstrates the strength and potential of Purdue’s basketball program. The game against UConn was their first loss to a nationally-ranked team this season, a testament to their competitive edge and capability.
As the curtains close on this chapter for Purdue, the legacy left by this senior class and their monumental achievements will inspire future Boilermakers. Although they fell short of the ultimate prize, their record-setting performances and the new benchmarks they established will resonate as a golden era in Purdue’s storied basketball history. The Boilermakers may not have won the championship, but they have undoubtedly won the respect and admiration of basketball fans nationwide.
