The Clash of The Titans is underway at the University of Phoenix Stadium. UConn and Purdue are battling to lay their claim on being the best program this season. Not to the surprise of many, the 7 ft 4 in center in the Purdue jersey, Zach Edey is so far the pick of the lot. Despite being denied the glittering NIL privileges on American soil, the Canadian giant refuses to let that frustration get the better of him. Once again, he let his talent do the talking, playing the architect to another monumental effort for the Boilermakers.
He was the first player on the night to enter into double-digits. He put up 16 points and 5 rebounds in the 1st Half. Moreover, his defensive and offensive prowess is getting a lot of spotlight, both on the court and on social media. His brilliance was on display throughout the night.
Seemingly, he was fighting a lone battle, as he was able to grab more than half of Purdue’s overall points. By the end of the night, the Purdue superstar was able to register a fantastic double-double. Unfortunately, his 37 points and 10 rebounds weren’t enough as the Boilermakers couldn’t lift their first national title.
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They were no match in front of a collective effort put up by the defending champions. Apart from Edey, the rest of the players could only score 21 points collectively. Nonetheless, his impressive performance was able to get notable commendations from his followers.
Fans appreciate Zach Edey’s efforts
Despite the loss, Edey kept troubling the Huskies’ defense throughout the fixture. As a result, some of Purdue’s supporters got behind him and applauded him. An X user granted the senior center the status of a demigod, citing stats to back his claim.
Zach Edey got 11 of Purdue's 16 points hes a literal demigod
— ⋆ (@FeelLikeAnt) April 9, 2024
Meanwhile, Edey stopping UConn’s senior guard Tristen Newton, who was awarded the Final Four Most Outstanding Player later on, from scoring with his massive block in the first half also won acknowledgment.
BIG BLOCK BY ZACH EDEY ❌#NationalChampionship #MarchMadness pic.twitter.com/J3ToxyCSny
— Nitrobetting.eu Sportsbook (@BtcNitrobetting) April 9, 2024
More comments piled on X recognizing his talent and skills. Some even termed the 7’4 giant a monster on the hardwood.
Zach edey is monster how you stop this shit
— beat the press (@BEAThepresscfc) April 9, 2024
Further, there were also some noteworthy opinions on how his exhibition can benefit his upcoming draft chances. In most projections so far, Edey has been predicted to get drafted in the 2nd round. Quite surprising for one of the top performers of the year.
Probably the most impressive 8 minute stretch I’ve seen Zach Edey play this year. Has already got Clingan with his baby hook, drop step and step through. Helping his draft stock even more.
— Brett Rau (@brettrau10) April 9, 2024
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Additionally, some funny references were also directed towards the referees before they stepped on the court to call Edey’s final game. Edey gets fouled a lot. Or as many would say, refs call a lot of soft fouls on Edey, which leads to free throws. In the Elite Eight matchup against Tennessee, Edey had TWENTY TWO attempts from the charity stripe. Through the regular season, he averaged 11.2 free throw attempts per game, making 8 per game.
NCAA Refs getting ready to call one last Zach Edey game
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) April 9, 2024
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Although the two-time national player of the year couldn’t achieve collective glory with his unit, his individual brilliance is worth getting all the spotlight. As he makes his way toward the professional realm of basketball, it will be interesting to see if his game will receive the same reception over there.
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