WATCH: Channeling Inner Shaquille O’Neal, Zach Edey Posts an Impressive Double-Double in Purdue’s Win

At Mackey Arena on Monday, Zach Edey’s size and Braden Smith’s leadership made the Boilermakers dominant throughout their victory over the Musketeers. Fans of basketball are reminded of Shaquille O’Neal by this. It’s a bit challenging to compare Edey and Shaq because they come from different eras. Edey’s height could be advantageous for him in rebounding and shot blocking, but Shaq was adaptable and didn’t allow his stature to limit him.

The 2023 National College Player of the Year is a great rebounder due to his height. Edey’s height allows him to reach over other players and prevent them from scoring. And he seized his advantage against Xavier to score a spectacular hook shot.

Zach Edey casts his spectacular spell against Xavier

No. 2 Purdue trounced Xavier 83-71 in the Gavitt Tipoff game, led by Zach Edey, who finished with 28 points and 11 rebounds, and Brad Smith, who added 12 points and seven assists. With their 27th straight regular-season victory over non-conference opponents, the Boilermakers (3-0) set a school record.

They also won their first game in the series since December 2001, snapping a five-game losing streak against the Musketeers. Owing to his height, Zach Edey stole the floor with impressive double-double shots to conceal the victory.

In comparison to Shaq, Edey’s performance is matched by his physique. He did a nice job of establishing his post, but Xavier did a fantastic job of collapsing and engulfing him. Edey finished with eight points (3-of-7 shooting) and five rebounds with three blocks in the first half.

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All of this laid the groundwork for a second-half performance befitting of the reigning national player of the year. Edey scored 20 points in the second half, many of them thunderous, as the Musketeers just couldn’t match his stature.

Is it possible to compare Shaq with Zach Edey?

Edey’s height could be advantageous for him in rebounding and shot blocking, but Shaq was adaptable and didn’t allow his stature to limit him.

Shaq’s style of play was just not constrained by his stature. He was able to make fantastic jump shots and pass without looking.

However, Shaq retired in early 2011, leaving behind a lengthy basketball background, whereas Zach Edey has only recently begun developing his abilities in the NCAA.

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The draft-eligible athlete is anticipated to capitalize on his unique stature and make magic like Shaq did during his heydays.