Zach Edey
In a move that signals the end of an era at Purdue Boilermakers men’s basketball, standout center Zach Edey has announced that he will depart the program after the 2023-24 season and declare for the 2024 NBA Draft.(purduesports.com)
Career in Context
Standing 7-foot-4, Edey came to Purdue largely under the radar, but his collegiate rise has been nothing short of historic. Over his tenure in West Lafayette he transformed from a late-recruit prospect into a dominant two-time unanimous National Player of the Year.(purduesports.com)
In his senior season, he averaged 25.2 points, 12.2 rebounds, 2.2 blocks and 2.0 assists per game while shooting 62.3 % from the field and 71.1 % from the free-throw line.(purduesports.com) Edey became the only player in NCAA history to average at least 25 points, 12 rebounds, 2 blocks and 2 assists per game.(purduesports.com)
On the accolades front, he swept the six major National Player of the Year awards for a second successive season — becoming the first player since UCLA’s Bill Walton (1972-73) to accomplish that feat.(purduesports.com)
Edey also leaves Purdue as the program’s all-time leader in both scoring and rebounding.
The Announcement & What It Means
Edey’s decision to move on signals that he will not use his extra year of eligibility (thanks to the COVID-19 waiver) and instead begin the next phase of his career.(FOX Sports)
For Purdue, this departure is a major shift. Edey was the anchor of the team’s interior presence, both offensively and defensively. His combination of size, agility, skill around the rim and rebounding dominance made him perhaps the most feared big man in college basketball over the last two seasons.
From the Boilermakers’ perspective, while they may mourn his exit, the program also gets to celebrate his legacy — and the example he leaves behind for future players.
Legacy & Impact at Purdue
- Statistical dominance: He is the only player in NCAA history to post those numbers listed above.(purduesports.com)
- Team success: Edey helped lead Purdue to back-to-back Big Ten regular-season titles, a Big Ten Tournament title (2023) and a Final Four appearance in 2024 — the program’s first since 1969.
- Program culture: Beyond numbers, Edey became a beloved figure in Purdue’s locker room and its community — showing humility, consistent availability for fans, and a relentless work ethic.
- Record books: Breaking long-standing records in scoring and rebounds, his name will forever be etched in Purdue’s history.(AP News)
What’s Next — For Edey & Purdue
- For Edey: With his declared entry into the NBA Draft, the next chapter awaits. He’ll be evaluated on how his game — especially given his unique size — translates to the professional level where spacing, mobility, and perimeter defense become more critical. Early reports suggest he is viewed as a first-round pick and a legitimate lottery contender.(Reuters)
- For Purdue: The Boilermakers now face the task of re-tooling around the void left by their generational big man. Who steps into the interior leadership role? How will the team adjust system-wise? The transition period will test the depth and adaptability of the program.
Final Thoughts
Zach Edey’s departure marks the official closing of one of the most remarkable college careers we have seen in recent years. His blend of dominance, consistency and impact on and off the court has elevated the Purdue program and left a legacy that will be referenced for years. Though fans will undoubtedly be sad to see him go, they should also celebrate what he gave them: unforgettable performances, program-defining moments, and an example of what collegiate excellence looks like.
As he turns his sights to the NBA, the Purdue community can take pride in having been his platform. There will be a new chapter at Mackey Arena, but the footprint Zach Edey leaves is indelible.
