Another game, another historic moment for Purdue senior center Zach Edey.
Against Wisconsin, Edey became the third player in NCAA history to score 2,000 points, grab 1,000 rebounds and amass 200 blocks while shooting 60 from the field in his college career. The other two he joined? NBA Hall of Famers David Robinson and Patrick Ewing.
“Those are elite, elite basketball players, like Hall of Fame players. To be mentioned in the same air as them is great. I want to keep working, and I am not satisfied. I want to keep going, want to being a better basketball player every year and see where it takes me,” Edey said.
Edey struggled to get going early against the Badgers, but finished with 18 points, 13 rebounds and three blocks for his 55th career double double. It also marked his 74th straight game in double figures. While he was pleased with the win, Edey was quick to mention he didn’t feel like he played his best for Purdue.
“Not at all. I don’t think I played up to my best today. I struggled from the line today and need to work on that,” Edey said.
Matt Painter pleased with Edey’s outing
Regardless, Purdue coach Matt Painter was all praise when it came to Edey.
“He’s such a load to keep off. He’s the best I’ve been around at tapping it back. You always think it’s over the back, but he’s just seven inches taller than the other guy. His effort is amazing. For someone who is carrying around that sort of cargo, he gives effort on every play. We thought that was a big piece,” Painter said.
Painter said with Purdue having the reigning National Player of the Year, it gives the Boilermakers an advantage.
“We have an elite center. When you go into a game, you’ve got to be able to game plan for Zach Edey,” Painter acknowledged.
In addition to making history, Edey is winning over those who trash talk him from the stands and quickly ask for an autograph after the games.
“Yeah, for sure. It’s just the dynamic of it,” Edey told the media laughing.
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