Glendale, Ariz. – More than one team arrived at the Final Four with aspirations, each aiming to etch its own remarkable tale into the annals of college basketball.
“Zach Edey and Purdue have had their sights set on this moment all season,” expressed Edey, the towering 7-foot-4 center who powered his team with 20 points and 12 rebounds in a decisive 63-50 triumph over North Carolina State. Lance Jones chipped in 14 points and 4 boards. The Boilermakers shot 40% from the field.
The Purdue Boilermakers delivered a performance for the ages, electrifying a crowd of 74,000 at the State Farm Arena in Glendale, Arizona. With the stakes sky-high and the energy palpable, the Boilers left an indelible mark on the court, securing a memorable victory over the Wolfpack.
Amidst the fervor surrounding N.C. State’s Cinderella run, reminiscent of their 1983 championship saga, the Wolfpack’s dream fell short by two wins.
“Didn’t get the big one,” lamented N.C. State guard DJ Horne, acknowledging the team’s commendable journey.
The Boilermakers took an 35-29 lead into the locker room and was feeling very good about their defensive effort in that frame.
Purdue’s ascent to the championship game might seem improbable to some, given their history of letdowns. Yet, led by Edey’s return for his senior season, they’ve defied expectations, reaching their first Final Four since 1980.
“For games like this, I returned,” emphasized Edey. “This is why I play college basketball.”
In a gritty showdown, Purdue’s resilience prevailed, overcoming N.C. State’s defensive pressure and erratic shooting.
“It was one of those grinder games,” reflected Purdue coach Matt Painter on the intense battle.
Despite N.C. State’s efforts, Edey’s dominance inside proved insurmountable, securing Purdue’s path to the title game.
“He’s a tall guy,” admitted N.C. State’s Burns. “If you let him get to his spots, he’s going to make his shots.”
In the second half, Purdue went on a 6-0 run after Edey, Jones, and Fletcher Loyer all scored. It’ was 55-42 Boilermakers, which was the largest lead of the game.
As N.C. State’s fairytale ended, Purdue stands poised to script their own chapter of glory, a culmination of relentless dedication and countless sleepless nights.
“It’s everything we’ve worked for, everything we thought about,” remarked Purdue’s Loyer, encapsulating the team’s journey to the brink of college basketball immortality.
The Boilermakers will wait and see who they will play in the championship but they will have to wait for the winner in the UConn versus Alabama contest.
