Indianapolis, IN — Zach Edey made history in the NCAA Tournament with a remarkable performance, leading the Purdue Boilermakers to a decisive 78-50 victory over Grambling State.
Dominating Performance by Edey
Zach Edey’s standout performance marked the first 30-point, 20-rebound game in the NCAA Tournament since 1995. Edey, known as one of the greatest scorers and rebounders in Purdue’s history, showcased his dominance on the court, finishing with 30 points and 21 rebounds in just 30 minutes of play. Standing tall at 7-foot-4 and weighing 300 pounds, Edey posed a formidable challenge for the Grambling State Tigers, frequently scoring on putbacks and drawing fouls.
Purdue’s Record-Breaking Victory
Bradley Smith contributed to Purdue’s victory with 11 points and 10 assists, while the team collectively secured a 48-23 rebounding advantage. The win not only propelled Purdue into the next round but also tied the school’s single-season record for victories, standing at an impressive 30-4.
Redemption for Purdue
The victory against Grambling State was a redemption for Purdue, especially after their disappointing first-round exit in the previous NCAA Tournament. Last year, Purdue fell to Fairleigh Dickinson, becoming only the second No. 1 seed to lose to a No. 16 seed in the tournament. However, this year, Purdue left no doubt about their superiority, demonstrating their strength as a team and the talent of their players.
Impressive Second-Half Performance
Purdue took control of the game early on, securing a 36-27 halftime lead. Edey then led the Boilermakers on a commanding 18-6 run at the beginning of the second half, solidifying their lead and securing their advancement in the tournament.
Grambling State’s Efforts
Despite the loss, Grambling State put up a commendable effort, with Tra’Michael Moton scoring 21 points and Kintavious Dozier contributing 16 points. The Tigers, champions of the Southwestern Athletic Conference Tournament, showcased their resilience throughout the game, particularly in their victory over Montana State in the First Four.
Edey’s Dominance Propels Purdue
Zach Edey’s historic performance, combined with Purdue’s collective effort, propelled the Boilermakers to a resounding victory in the NCAA Tournament. With their sights set on further success, Purdue advances to the next round with confidence and determination.
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