This was a satisfying and different tourney experience

[KenTre1983]

The first two games against unknowns reminded of the games Purdue has struggled in during past tourneys. And, when Braden isn’t shooting well, and the team shoots under 50 percent. In the past, you could almost guarantee an early exit. Instead, the team defended well and rebounded well and got enough from TKR and the others to win.
Then, against Houston, once again, Braden not shooting well, but the defense and other contributors step up, and Purdue comes back late from a double-digit deficit to tie the game, and make a #1 seed earn a victory.
Not a typical script for a Purdue S16 appearance. I am really happy with the way the team shook off its late season swoon and played like one of the top teams in the country. I think you have to give CMP a lot of credit for this tourney turnaround. Go Boilers!

 

[rgarlitz]

I agree. This season looks much better now than it did for much of February and early March.

For me, the two big takeaways from this year's NCAA Tournament run are:

1) Purdue rediscovered defense. Purdue gave up 61.7 ppg in 3 NCAA Tournament games, one of which came against a Final Four team.

2) The bench really came alive (continuing a late season trend). Bench players contributed 54 points, 43 rebounds, and shot 37% from 3 in three NCAA Tournament games. Bench players also made tangible contributions in stopping McNeese's second half mini-rally in the Round of 32 and in getting Purdue back into the game against Houston.

Assuming the core 8 all stay together, this team could be a front runner next year.

 

[DwaynePurvis00]

I agree. This season looks much better now than it did for much of February and early March.

For me, the two big takeaways from this year's NCAA Tournament run are:

1) Purdue rediscovered defense. Purdue gave up 61.7 ppg in 3 NCAA Tournament games, one of which came against a Final Four team.

2) The bench really came alive (continuing a late season trend). Bench players contributed 54 points, 43 rebounds, and shot 37% from 3 in three NCAA Tournament games. Bench players also made tangible contributions in stopping McNeese's second half mini-rally in the Round of 32 and in getting Purdue back into the game against Houston.

Assuming the core 8 all stay together, this team could be a front runner next year.

Could be?

Will be