Zach Edey, the 7-foot-4 Purdue senior, had a standout performance in his final home game against Wisconsin, leading No. 3 Purdue to a 78-70 victory. Edey battled through a leg injury to score 25 points and grab 14 rebounds, becoming the first Big Ten player to achieve 2,200 points and 1,200 rebounds. In a heartwarming moment, Edey's jersey number, 15, was retired and raised to the rafters of Mackey Arena.
The game was also significant for Purdue as they celebrated Senior Day and honored their six-player senior class. Point guard Braden Smith was recognized for breaking the school's single-season assists record, while Edey received a special tribute with the playing of 'O Canada' in honor of his Toronto roots.
Purdue's victory secured their second consecutive Big Ten title with a comfortable lead. Fletcher Loyer contributed 15 points, and Smith added 10 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds to the winning effort.
Despite a strong offensive performance, Wisconsin struggled to contain Edey's presence near the basket, committing 11 fouls against him. The Badgers' John Blackwell and Tyler Wahl each scored 17 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome Purdue's resilience.
Looking ahead, Wisconsin enters the Big Ten Tournament with uncertainty after a challenging season, while Purdue sets its sights on redemption following last year's early NCAA Tournament exit. The Boilermakers are poised to maintain their top-five ranking and pursue their ultimate goal in the upcoming postseason.
Wisconsin will await their opening game in the Big Ten Tournament, while Purdue, as the top seed, will enjoy a double bye and prepare for a quarterfinal matchup in Minneapolis.
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