Purdue's Zach Edey is averaging 20.3 points, 13.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks against Indiana in the last four meetings. Yet the Hoosiers are 3-1 against the Boilermakers in that stretch. How is IU winning games without shutting down the big man?
Usually, the key to beating Purdue is neutralizing National Player of the Year Zach Edey. Over the last two seasons, though, Indiana has actually found success despite the 7-foot-4 center's dominant performances against the Hoosiers.
Over the last two seasons — four matchups between Purdue and Indiana — Edey is averaging 20.3 points, 13.5 rebounds, 2.5 blocks and two assists per game. With those numbers, you might think Matt Painter is a perfect 4-0 against Mike Woodson.
Instead, the Hoosiers have managed a 3-1 record against their in-state rival. They won both the 2022 and 2023 games at Assembly Hall and split the two contests at Mackey Arena.
Last year's 2-0 record against Purdue was particularly impressive for Indiana, with Edey averaging 29.5 points, 17 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 2.5 blocks per game. So, how have the Hoosiers won those three games?
First, let's look at the numbers Edey has put up in each of the last four meetings against Indiana.
Zach Edey's Numbers vs. Indiana
2022-23 season
- Feb. 4, 2023 (Bloomington): Indiana defeats Purdue 79-74
- Feb. 25, 2023 (West Lafayette): Indiana defeats Purdue 79-71
- Edey's 2022-23 Averages vs. IU: 29.5 points, 17 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 2.5 blocks
