“Absolutely disgusting”: College hoops world fuming after $815k NIL-valued Zach Edey shown alleged favoritism by refs vs. Gonzaga

Top seed Purdue Boilermakers defeated No. 5 seed Gonzaga Bulldogs 80-68 in the Sweet 16. Purdue's triumph was spearheaded by a standout performance from Zach Edey.

However, the game was full of controversial officiating decisions, with fans claiming that the referees were favoring Edey, who has an NIL value of $815,000 per On3.

One such incident happened in the first half, as Edey appeared to commit a foul on Gonzaga guard Ryan Nambhard. Despite clear contact resulting in Nambhard falling to the floor, the referees did not penalize Edey.

This left college basketball fans furious.

"Abosulutely disgusting. I've never seen a player in the sport with a better whistle," said one fan.

"Haha, Zach Edey gonna be in for a rude awakening in the NBA. These refs for like no other," said one fan.

"He won't be in the NBA," added another.

"Gonna be dunked on every night in the NBA."

"Be on bench in the NBA for his rookie contract then sent elsewhere to play."

"Dude's going to be playing like 4 minutes a game at the end of blowouts. Nobody will care."

"Pretty loose whistle in the summer league, which is the closest to the NBA he'll get. He should be a borderline all star in China in few years."

"He's not even getting drafted in the NBA. All he has for a skill, is being tall."

"He'd be nothing without the refs. I stand by that."

"He isn't playing in the NBA. Guy can't move."

"NBA refs favor big guys even more than this. So, take a look at Embiid, Jokic, Anthony Davis etc. Seems like if he can make it to the NBA, he'll get better treatment."

"For my own sanity I'm glad I ve never had to deal with cheering against him."

"LMAO WHAT ARE THEY DOING."

"Superstar treatment just like LeBron."

"Two egrigious fouls."

"Sick of watching games like this. Every time he plays. Funny he falls over players, hooks and holds them, no foul on Dey. Disgusting to watch."

Who were the star performers for Purdue against Gonzaga?

Gonzaga v Purdue

Purdue defeated Gonzaga thanks to the collective efforts of Zach Edey, Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer, and Lance Jones.

Edey scored 27 points, collected 14 rebounds, and had an assist in his 38-minute display. Braden Smith had 14 points, 8 rebounds, and an impressive 14 assists. Fletcher and Lance scored 10 and 12 points respectively.

Under the guidance of Matt Painter, Purdue beat Grambling St. 78-50 in the first round 78-50, followed by a 106-67 win over Utah St. in the second round.