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Painter Admits Starting Lineup Not Set
9 Oct
Summary
- Coach Painter has not set the starting lineup for the upcoming season.
- Purdue's exhibition games will be used to determine the starting roster.
- The team has lost key seniors and a transfer from the previous season.
Purdue men's basketball is gearing up for its exhibition games, scheduled to begin in 10 days, with a notable shift in team dynamics. Head coach Matt Painter attended Big Ten media days, signaling the approaching start of the season.
Painter revealed that the starting lineup for the upcoming season is not yet finalized, a departure from recent years. He plans to use the exhibition games as a crucial period to experiment with various lineups and determine the best roster. This approach is necessary due to the departure of key players, including seniors Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer, and Trey Kaufman-Renn, along with transfer Oscar Cluff.
This marks a significant transition for the Boilermakers, who previously relied on a stable core. The team is now described as young and energized, with returning starter CJ Cox being one of the few familiar faces. The potential impact of redshirt freshman Antoine West was also highlighted, suggesting a possible significant role for him this season.
Further updates and analysis will follow as the team continues its preparation for the official season kickoff next month. The focus remains on integrating new talent and establishing a cohesive unit for the challenges ahead.
