Zach Edey, a standout star, is essential for the excitement of the men’s NCAA Tournament. He’s in the running to be named the national player of the year for the second consecutive time. Leading Purdue, Edey is a key figure in their quest for victory in March Madness, especially as they enter the competition as a No. 1 seed once again. This year, Purdue is determined to advance further than the previous season, aiming for their first Final Four appearance since 1980, with Edey playing a significant role in this ambition.
Let’s dive into the details about Purdue’s center, Zach Edey. Hailing from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Edey initially played hockey and baseball before switching to basketball in his sophomore year of high school. He later attended IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, for his senior year.
Edey stands tall at 7 feet, 4 inches, and weighs 300 pounds, wearing a size 20 shoe. Since joining Purdue in 2020, the team has seen impressive success, boasting a 105-28 record over four seasons. This achievement ranks them third in winning percentage during this period, trailing only behind Houston and Gonzaga. Purdue has consistently made it to the NCAA Tournament with Edey, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2022 and winning two Big Ten regular-season titles and one Big Ten tournament championship.
Edey’s achievements are numerous. He was named to the Big Ten all-freshman team and earned second-team all-Big Ten honors in his second season. His accolades continued to grow, including being named the 2023 Big Ten Player of the Year, making the Big Ten all-defense team, winning the Big Ten tournament Most Valuable Player, becoming a consensus All-American, and being named the national player of the year. This season, he repeated as Big Ten Player of the Year and made the Big Ten all-defense team, positioning him as a frontrunner for the national player of the year once again. In recognition of his contributions, Purdue retired Edey’s jersey on his senior night.
As Edey’s final season at Purdue unfolds, he has decided not to use his extra COVID-19 year and will enter the NBA draft, as confirmed by head coach Matt Painter. His performance this season has been outstanding, leading Division I in points per game and field goals made, among other categories.
Looking ahead, Purdue, with Edey leading the charge, is the No. 1 seed in their region for the NCAA Tournament. Their first game will be against the winner of the First Four matchup between Grambling State and Montana State, scheduled for Friday, March 22, at 7:25 p.m. ET at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.