As we assess the Big Ten teams for the 2023-24 season, let’s begin with Purdue, the reigning Big Ten champions. The Boilermakers had an impressive campaign last year, finishing with a 29-6 record, and the majority of their roster returns for the upcoming season.
Departures
- Brandon Newman (6.0 PPG)
- David Jenkins Jr. (3.9 PPG)
Returning Players
- Zach Edey, C (22.3 PPG)
- Fletcher Loyer, G (11.0 PPG)
- Braden Smith, G (9.7 PPG)
- Mason Gillis, F (6.8 PPG)
- Trey Kaufman-Renn, F (4.5 PPG)
- Caleb Furst, F (5.5 PPG)
- Ethan Morton, G (3.8 PPG)
- Brian Waddell, F (0.5 PPG)
- Will Berg, C
- Camden Heide, F
New Additions
- Lance Jones, G (13.8 PPG at Southern Illinois) [Transfer]
- Myles Colvin, PF (No. 97 in 247Sports Composite) [Freshman]
Returning Minutes: 83.8 percent (according to barttorvik.com)
Why it will work
Purdue’s success in the Big Ten speaks for itself. With the majority of their team intact from last season, which included winning the Big Ten regular season title and conference tournament, the Boilermakers have the potential to continue their winning ways. The presence of reigning Big Ten and National Player of the Year Zach Edey in the paint adds a dominant force to their lineup. Further development from Fletcher Loyer and Braden Smith would make Purdue even more formidable and challenging to stop.
Why it won’t work
Opponents who can neutralize Purdue’s secondary options and disrupt their ball distribution to Edey can limit their effectiveness. Sophomore slumps for Loyer and Smith could create difficulties. Additionally, Purdue had the fortune of avoiding significant injuries last season, but replicating such low attrition is unlikely. If injuries become a factor, the Boilermakers will face a real test.
Our take
Purdue rightfully enters the season as favorites in the Big Ten and among the top teams nationally. They boast a high percentage of returning minutes and the imposing presence of Zach Edey, who had a dominant season. While questions remain about Purdue’s tournament success, coach Matt Painter has consistently proven the effectiveness of their style within the Big Ten. There’s no reason to doubt their ability to replicate that success once again.
