Purdue Basketball 2018: Roster, Players, And More

Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the Purdue Boilermakers basketball team of 2018. This was a squad packed with talent, grit, and some serious highlights. Whether you're a die-hard Purdue fan or just a college hoops enthusiast, understanding the makeup of this team offers a great look at what made them so competitive. We're going to break down the roster, highlight key players, and explore what made this particular season memorable. So, buckle up and get ready for a Boilermaker basketball blast from the past!

The Roster: Names and Numbers

The 2017-2018 Purdue Boilermakers roster was a blend of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, creating a dynamic mix that made them a force to be reckoned with in the Big Ten Conference. At the helm was head coach Matt Painter, a name synonymous with Purdue basketball excellence. He masterfully guided this team, leveraging the strengths of each player to create a cohesive and high-performing unit. Now, let's dive into the names that donned the Old Gold and Black.

• Vincent Edwards: A senior forward, Edwards was a cornerstone of the team. His versatility allowed him to contribute in multiple facets of the game, from scoring and rebounding to playmaking and defense. Edwards' leadership both on and off the court was invaluable to the Boilermakers' success.
• Isaac Haas: Standing tall at 7'2", Haas was a dominant force in the paint. The senior center's imposing size and skilled post moves made him a nightmare matchup for opposing teams. Haas provided a consistent scoring presence and was a reliable rebounder, anchoring Purdue's frontcourt.
• Carsen Edwards: The sophomore guard was an explosive scorer and a fearless competitor. Edwards possessed a knack for hitting clutch shots and electrifying the crowd with his dynamic play. His scoring prowess and aggressive style of play made him a key offensive weapon for the Boilermakers.
• Dakota Mathias: A senior guard known for his sharpshooting ability, Mathias was a valuable asset to the team. His perimeter shooting stretched opposing defenses, creating space for his teammates to operate. Mathias' consistency and reliability made him a trusted option in crucial moments.
• Ryan Cline: The junior guard provided valuable minutes off the bench, contributing both scoring and energy. Cline's ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc made him a threat to opposing defenses. His hustle and determination were appreciated by coaches and fans alike.
• P.J. Thompson: A senior guard, Thompson was a steady presence in the backcourt. Known for his ball-handling skills and decision-making, Thompson helped to keep the offense running smoothly. His experience and composure were valuable assets to the team.
• Matt Haarms: The freshman center brought energy and enthusiasm to the team. Haarms' shot-blocking ability and rebounding prowess provided a spark off the bench. His potential and upside hinted at a bright future for the Boilermakers.
• Nojel Eastern: A freshman guard, Eastern was a versatile player who could contribute in multiple ways. His athleticism and defensive ability made him a valuable asset to the team. Eastern's potential and versatility suggested a promising future for the Boilermakers.
• Grady Eifert: A junior forward, Eifert provided valuable minutes off the bench. His hustle and determination were appreciated by coaches and fans alike. Eifert's willingness to do the dirty work made him a valuable asset to the team.
• Eden Ewing: A junior forward, Ewing added depth to the frontcourt. His rebounding and defensive ability provided valuable support to the team. Ewing's contributions off the bench helped to solidify Purdue's depth.
• Sasha Stefanovic: A freshman guard, Stefanovic showed promise as a shooter and playmaker. His potential and skill set suggested a bright future for the Boilermakers. Stefanovic's development was closely watched by coaches and fans alike.

This blend of experience and youth, skill and athleticism, made the 2017-2018 Purdue Boilermakers a formidable team that left a lasting impact on college basketball. Their success was a testament to the coaching staff's ability to bring together diverse talents and create a cohesive unit that competed at the highest level.

Key Players and Their Impact

Let's zoom in on some of the standout players from that 2018 Purdue basketball roster and analyze their impact on the team's success. These guys weren't just names on a list; they were the engine that drove the Boilermakers forward, each bringing unique skills and leadership qualities to the court.

Vincent Edwards: Leading the charge was Vincent Edwards, a senior forward whose versatility was unmatched. Edwards wasn't just a scorer; he was a playmaker, a rebounder, and a defensive stalwart. His ability to guard multiple positions made him a crucial piece in Purdue's defensive schemes. Offensively, he could score inside and out, making him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenders. Edwards' leadership qualities were also instrumental in guiding the team, setting an example with his work ethic and determination. He consistently delivered in crucial moments, solidifying his status as a cornerstone of the Boilermakers' success. Edwards' well-rounded game and unwavering commitment made him an indispensable part of the team's success, earning him accolades and the respect of fans and opponents alike.

Isaac Haas: Towering over the competition was Isaac Haas, the 7'2" senior center whose presence in the paint was simply dominant. Haas was a force to be reckoned with, using his size and strength to score easy baskets and grab rebounds. Opposing teams struggled to contain him, often forced to double-team, which opened up opportunities for his teammates. Haas' impact wasn't limited to scoring and rebounding; his presence alone altered the way opposing teams approached the game. Defensively, he was a shot-blocking threat, deterring opponents from driving to the basket. Haas' consistent performance and imposing size made him a focal point of Purdue's offense and a key factor in their success. His contributions were essential to the Boilermakers' inside game, providing a reliable scoring option and a defensive anchor.

Carsen Edwards: The explosive sophomore guard, Carsen Edwards, brought an element of excitement and unpredictability to the Purdue offense. Edwards was a fearless scorer, possessing the ability to create his own shot and knock down jumpers from anywhere on the court. His scoring outbursts often sparked the team, igniting the crowd and shifting the momentum of the game. Edwards' aggressive style of play and unwavering confidence made him a fan favorite and a key offensive weapon for the Boilermakers. He thrived under pressure, consistently delivering clutch performances in crucial moments. Edwards' ability to take over games and his knack for hitting tough shots made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. His contributions were vital to Purdue's offensive firepower, providing a scoring punch that kept opponents on their toes.

Dakota Mathias: Rounding out the key contributors was Dakota Mathias, the senior guard known for his sharpshooting ability. Mathias was a deadly perimeter shooter, capable of knocking down shots from beyond the arc with remarkable consistency. His shooting prowess stretched opposing defenses, creating space for his teammates to operate. Mathias' reliability and composure made him a trusted option in crucial moments, often called upon to take important shots down the stretch. Defensively, he was a solid contributor, using his intelligence and positioning to disrupt opposing offenses. Mathias' consistency and sharpshooting ability made him a valuable asset to the team, providing a reliable scoring option and a defensive presence.

These key players, along with the contributions of the entire roster, formed a cohesive unit that propelled the Purdue Boilermakers to success. Their individual talents, combined with their collective effort and unwavering determination, made them a force to be reckoned with in college basketball.

Season Highlights and Memorable Moments

The 2017-2018 season was filled with thrilling moments and impressive achievements for the Purdue Boilermakers. Let's relive some of the highlights that made this season so unforgettable for Purdue fans.

• Dominant Start: The Boilermakers started the season on a tear, winning their first 19 games and climbing to the top of the national rankings. This impressive streak showcased their talent and potential, establishing them as a legitimate contender for the national championship.
• Big Ten Championship: Purdue captured the Big Ten regular-season championship, solidifying their dominance in the conference. This achievement was a testament to their consistency and resilience throughout the season, overcoming challenges and setbacks to emerge victorious.
• Carsen Edwards' Scoring Outbursts: Carsen Edwards had several memorable scoring performances, including a 40-point outburst against Illinois. These electrifying performances showcased his scoring prowess and ability to take over games, captivating fans and leaving opponents in awe.
• Isaac Haas' Dominance in the Paint: Isaac Haas consistently dominated in the paint, providing a reliable scoring option and a defensive presence. His imposing size and skilled post moves made him a nightmare matchup for opposing teams, leading to numerous double-doubles and dominant performances.
• NCAA Tournament Run: The Boilermakers earned a No. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament and advanced to the Sweet Sixteen. Their tournament run was filled with exciting victories and nail-biting finishes, showcasing their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.

Where Are They Now?

Ever wondered what happened to the stars of the 2018 Purdue basketball team after their time in West Lafayette? Let's catch up with some of the key players and see where their basketball journeys have taken them.

• Vincent Edwards: After graduating from Purdue, Vincent Edwards was drafted into the NBA, fulfilling a lifelong dream. He has since played professionally in various leagues, showcasing his versatility and skills on the international stage.
• Isaac Haas: Isaac Haas pursued a professional basketball career after leaving Purdue, playing in various leagues around the world. His size and skill set continue to make him a valuable asset to any team he joins.
• Carsen Edwards: Carsen Edwards made the leap to the NBA, where he has showcased his scoring ability and athleticism. He continues to develop his game and strives to make an impact at the highest level of basketball.
• Dakota Mathias: Dakota Mathias has enjoyed a successful professional basketball career, playing in various leagues both domestically and internationally. His sharpshooting ability and basketball IQ have made him a valuable asset to every team he has played for.

Final Thoughts

The 2018 Purdue Boilermakers basketball team was a special group of players who achieved great success both on and off the court. Their talent, teamwork, and determination made them a force to be reckoned with in college basketball. This team left a lasting legacy at Purdue University, inspiring future generations of Boilermakers. Remembering this roster is like revisiting a golden age of Purdue basketball, filled with unforgettable moments and players who gave their all for the Old Gold and Black. So, here's to the 2018 Purdue Boilermakers – a team that will always hold a special place in the hearts of fans! Go Boilers!