The Midwest Regional features college basketball’s biggest star — and its biggest redemption arc. Can anyone challenge Purdue?
Five years ago, Virginia entered the Big Dance as the No. 1 seed with astronomical expectations. After all, the previous year’s crop of Cavaliers had just become the first-ever top seed to lose to a No. 16 in the NCAA Tournament. It was a shocking, embarrassing loss, and it seemed as though the entire world was watching in March 2019 to see how they would respond.
Well, folks, it’s time to gather ’round the old microscope again.
Purdue enters the 2024 NCAA Tournament in virtually the same spot Virginia occupied five years ago. The Boilermakers, however, bear some added infamy. Remember, they didn’t just lose to No. 16 seed Fairleigh Dickinson last year — they also got clipped in the Sweet 16 during No. 15 Saint Peter’s run in 2022.
Matt Painter’s squad is back as a No. 1 seed again, though, with a chance to complete an incredible redemption arc. On the other hand, a handful of capable opponents throughout the region are champing at the bit to write another tragic chapter in Purdue’s story. (In fact, Saint Peter’s is one of them!)
More tournament coverage:
—March Madness: The only 6 championship contenders
—Region Previews: South | Midwest | West | East
Log in to your HC+ account or sign up now to view this content.
You must be logged in to post a comment.