Has Purdue Ever Been Ranked #1 In Basketball
Purdue University, located in West Lafayette, Indiana, is known for its renowned basketball program. The Boilermakers have had many successful seasons, conference championships, and postseason appearances, but the question remains: has Purdue ever been ranked #1 in basketball?
The Glory Days of Purdue Basketball
Purdue basketball has a rich history, with many great players and coaches who have contributed to its success. Some of the most prominent figures in Purdue basketball history include John Wooden, Gene Keady, and Rick Mount, who was the school's all-time leading scorer until 2019.
The glory days of Purdue basketball came in the late 1960s and early 1970s under the leadership of Coach Keady. The Boilermakers won six Big Ten Conference championships during this time and reached the NCAA Tournament five times in six years, including a Final Four appearance in 1980. Purdue was a consistent contender for national championships, but they fell short of the #1 ranking throughout Keady's tenure.
The Close Calls
Purdue has had several close calls when it comes to being ranked #1 in basketball. In the 1993-1994 season, the Boilermakers were ranked #2 in the country and were in contention for the top spot for most of the season. However, they never made it to #1 and ultimately finished the season with a record of 29-5.
In the 2009-2010 season, Purdue was once again in contention for the #1 ranking. The Boilermakers had a remarkable season, with a record of 29-6 and a Big Ten Conference championship. However, they were never able to secure the top spot in the rankings, finishing the season ranked #4 in the country.
The Future of Purdue Basketball
While Purdue has yet to attain the coveted #1 ranking in basketball, the future looks bright for the Boilermakers. In recent seasons, Purdue has been a consistent contender in the Big Ten Conference and has made several deep runs in the NCAA Tournament.
The current head coach of Purdue basketball, Matt Painter, has led the team to two Big Ten Conference championships and five Sweet Sixteen appearances since taking over in 2005. With a talented roster and a winning culture, it's only a matter of time before Purdue basketball breaks through and attains the #1 ranking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Purdue has never been ranked #1 in basketball, despite several close calls throughout its history. However, the Boilermakers remain a successful program with a bright future, and it's only a matter of time before they attain the elusive top spot in the rankings.
