Purdue"s Zach Edey has been making waves in the NCAA Tournament, earning praise from basketball legend Shaquille O"Neal for his standout performances.
OptaSTATS recently highlighted Edey"s remarkable run, revealing that he is the first player since O"Neal himself to achieve at least 20 points and three blocked shots in three consecutive March Madness games.
Zach Edey of @BoilerBall is the first player with three straight games with at least 20 points and three blocks in the NCAA Tournament since Shaquille O'Neal for LSU in the 1991 & 1992 tournaments. pic.twitter.com/LLC736Ri97
— OptaSTATS (@OptaSTATS) March 24, 2024
O"Neal, known for his dominance during his college career at LSU and his subsequent NBA success, took notice of Edey"s achievements and bestowed upon him a special nickname, proclaiming, “I"m changing your name to Zachille O"Neal."
Shaq jokes about changing Zach Edey's name because of their similar stats in the NCAA tournament 😂
(via @SHAQ, h/t @OptaSTATS) pic.twitter.com/gWSv6BxTEi
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 24, 2024
Edey"s impressive run began with Purdue"s first-round victory over Grambling State, where he put up staggering numbers, tallying 30 points, 21 rebounds, two assists, and three blocks.
His stellar performance continued into the second round against Utah State, contributing 23 points, 14 rebounds, three assists, two steals, and three blocks to Purdue"s decisive win.
While Edey"s streak of exceptional performances extends back to last year"s tournament, his efforts were not enough to prevent Purdue"s early exit in a shocking upset against FDU Knights. Despite the defeat, Edey showcased his talent with 21 points, 15 rebounds, one assist, and three blocks.
Looking ahead, Edey aims to maintain his stellar form as Purdue advances to the Sweet Sixteen, where they will face the Gonzaga Bulldogs.
