Are Boilers Final Four bound? 4 bold predictions ahead of Purdue basketball season

WEST LAFAYETTE — Unlike last season, Purdue basketball enters this campaign with high expectations.

In the previous year, Purdue started the season unranked and received little attention outside of West Lafayette.

However, within a month, Purdue climbed into the top five rankings.

Purdue’s early-season success led them to clinch both the Big Ten regular season and tournament titles.

While the past season’s ending need not be revisited, as the new college basketball season commences, Purdue finds itself among the top five teams nationally but also the subject of jokes due to their performance in the 2022-23 season.

With Purdue hosting Samford on Monday night, it’s time to make some daring predictions for the upcoming season.

Purdue will successfully defend their Big Ten title

The path to the conference title won’t be as straightforward as last season, but Purdue possesses star power, versatility, and depth, enabling them to exploit mismatches against their opponents.

Although Purdue will inevitably stumble against an unexpected team during conference play, as Northwestern did last season when they were ranked No. 1, this is a common occurrence.

Michigan State poses the biggest threat to Purdue’s conference championship aspirations. Mark your calendars for March 2 when the Spartans visit Mackey Arena for their sole matchup against Purdue. This game could determine the regular season title.

Zach Edey won’t secure the National Player of the Year title

Undoubtedly, Edey was the most outstanding and dominant player in college basketball last season.

While he may be even more valuable this season, replicating his previous year’s stat line, particularly as Purdue’s offense aims for greater balance

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