Hoosier State Hoops: Purdue Recruiting Rundown

The Purdue Boilermakers, following a surprising Elite 8 run in 2018-19, will now look to build on  this year’s success despite losing Carsen Edwards to the NBA Draft. As the Boilermakers prep their season, here are some evaluations of recruits they have signed for next season.

 

Brandon Newman

Brandon Newman, native from Valparaiso, Indiana, will give Purdue its main recruit. He is a 4-star recruit according to 247 Sports, the highest rating of any 2019 Purdue recruit. What makes Newman special is his ability to catch and shoot. The ability to knock down shots off the pass will be needed for this Boilermakers team with the expiration of Ryan Cline’s eligibility.

He also brings some solid defense for the Boilermakers and that is what Purdue Coach Matt Painter is all about. With the addition of Newman, I see the Boilermakers using him in their rotation. There will be lots of minutes will be for the taking with the losses of Cline and Edwards. The 6-foot-3 guard has a chance to be the main guy for taking those minutes, but I expect him to really shine when he is a junior or senior for Purdue.

 

Mason Gillis

The 6-foot-6 guard from New Castle, Indiana has a chance to give Purdue another Nojel Eastern. Gillis will be unique, as he is more of an inside-outside guard. But, that is a good thing for Purdue. He will be able to use his strength in the paint as he is a bigger, more physical guard than what the Big Ten normally sees.

However, the main thing to keep an eye on is that Gillis was injured in his senior Season. He was limited in his action which could lead to a longer transition for him. I would not expect Gillis to be an immediate contributor as he gets ready, both physically and mentally, from the injury.  That does not mean that he won’t have an impact for how Purdue looks at the future, however.

 

Isaiah Thompson

Purdue fans still have fresh memories of P.J. Thompson, but he has a little brother who is also coming to Purdue. Isaiah is a little different than P.J. with how he plays. Isaiah’s is slightly better off the dribble and he will give Purdue some athleticism at the point guard position.

Thompson comes in with a high basketball IQ and will be able to benefit Purdue with his decision making. Although, the playing time may not be immediate. Sophomore Eric Hunter from Indianapolis, Indiana looks to take the starting job at point guard, but Thompson could have a chance if Hunter does not play as well as he needs too. The Big Ten is one difficult conference and the guard play of Purdue will need to be efficient as they look to be a threat for the Big Ten Championship.