The last possession of the game was one of the few times Zach Edey was guarded individually. He took full advantage. Edey hit a game-winning layup with 2.7 seconds to go, leading the Purdue Boilermakers to a 64-63 win over the Michigan State Spartans.
Edey had this to say about his heroics following the game:
"Coach drew up a play for me to get the ball. ... I don't think it's a surprise to anyone. He gave me the ball and I felt like I had to go quick because we only had ten seconds. Dribble baseline, spun back middle. I should've dunked that honestly."
Zach Edey was dominant against the Spartans. He finished the game with 32 points, 17 rebounds, and two blocks. The win has put the #3 Boilermakers in sole possession of first place in the Big Ten. The Canadian-born big man is in contention for the National Player of the Year Award.
Explore the NBA Draft 2024 with our free NBA Mock Draft Simulator & be the GM of your favorite NBA team.
Boilmakers sophomore Caleb Furst has a lot of faith in Zach Edey's ability to perform in the clutch.
"We like that matchup with anybody in the country one-on-one. So we trust him to make the right decision, whatever that may be."
Zach Edey has shown steady progress over the last two seasons. He's also improved defensively. Edey has averaged two blocks per game and has a 31.8% usage rate. The ability to perform on both ends of the floor is essential.
Zach Edey, Purdue Boilermakers Continue Hot Streak
After a narrow loss to Rugters, the Boilermakers have ripped through the Big Ten in the last week and a half. Fletcher Loyer has impressed all season. Sunday's game was no different. He recorded 17 points, two rebounds, four assists, and a steal in the win.
Late in the second half, Loyer showcased his ability to step up in the big moments. With 3:23 left in the fourth quarter, he scored a tough layup with defenders drapped all over him to bring the Boilermakers within two points. His energy is contagious. When he gets going, it fuels his teammates. He's a big reason why they've pulled off a four-game win streak.
The best way to explain Loyer's play on Monday in East Lansing was simplay six words. "He's not scared of the moment."
It seems like the Boilermakers have a legitimate shot at making it to the Final Four. Some would say they are the favorites to win it all. If players like Zach Edey and Brandon Loyer play to their potential, the sky is the limit for Purdue.
The Boilermakers will take on the Minnesota Gophers this Thursday at Williams Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00pm/ET.