Live updates: UConn vs Purdue in the National Championship game, including highlights, statistics, and the latest action

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Tonight marks the culmination of Men’s March Madness as the 2024 national champion is crowned. UConn, the top-seeded team, is vying to achieve a rare feat in men’s college basketball by repeating as champions, a feat last accomplished by Florida in 2006-07. On the other hand, Purdue, also a No. 1 seed, is determined to secure their first-ever national championship in the program’s history.

TBS is currently broadcasting the national championship game. Throughout the day, USA TODAY Sports will be offering the most up-to-date news, scores, analysis, and more. Stay tuned for all the latest updates.

Connecticut has taken the lead in the first half, scoring the first run of the game and now leading 30-25. This is the largest lead we’ve seen tonight.

The Huskies are dominating the game with their relentless defensive pressure, resulting in a 9-2 run in the past four minutes. Purdue, on the other hand, is struggling to find their rhythm, only making one of their last seven shots. In the midst of Connecticut’s impressive run, Donovan Clingan is showcasing his skills, contributing five points and helping his team surge ahead. With seven points and two rebounds already, Clingan is becoming a key player for the Huskies.

In an exciting start to the game, Purdue and Connecticut are currently tied at 23-all after 13 minutes of play. The score has been back and forth, with four ties and eight lead changes. Purdue has been relying on their inside game, particularly through Zach Edey, who has already scored 14 points on an impressive 6-of-8 shooting. On the other hand, Connecticut has been successful from beyond the arc, making 3 of their 7 attempts from three-point range. In contrast, Purdue has yet to convert their only three-point attempt.

Both the Huskies and their opponents have already encountered foul concerns in the game. Hassan Diarra from the Huskies has already accumulated two fouls, as has Lance Jones, who was the standout player in the semifinal matchup against NC State.

The national player of the year is truly making a name for themselves on the grand stage.

Zach Edey has made a significant impact on the game, contributing 11 out of Purdue’s 16 points. He has been a dominant presence near the basket, showcasing his skills with two impressive blocks. Purdue has been relying on their inside game, as 14 of their points have been scored in the paint.

Purdue is making its way towards the basket, but Connecticut is effectively preventing the Boilermakers from taking any 3-point shots. Despite being the second-best team in Division I when it comes to shooting from beyond the arc, Purdue has only managed to attempt one perimeter shot thus far.

With 11:28 remaining in the first half, Connecticut is currently leading 18-16.

Connecticut head coach Dan Hurley expressed during the media timeout that the opposing player is challenging to defend and requires a diverse defensive strategy.

Starters for national championship game

Connecticut starters

    • Tristen Newton, guard
    • Stephon Castle, guard
    • Cam Spencer, guard
    • Alex Karaban, forward
    • Donovan Clingan, center

Purdue starters

    • Fletcher Loyer, guard
    • Braden Smith, guard
    • Lance Jones, guard
    • Trey Kaufman-Renn, forward
    • Zach Edey, center

What time does UConn play Purdue?

No. 1 UConn and No. 1 Purdue tip off at 9:20 ET tonight.

How to watch UConn vs. Purdue: TV channel, live stream

You can catch tonight’s national championship on TBS. The game can be streamed on various platforms including the NCAA March Madness Live app, HBO Max, HULU with Live TV, Sling TV, and Fubo.

Purdue vs. UConn prediction: Huskies get another double-digit win in NCAA Tournament

UConn had an off day against Alabama but still managed to secure a 14-point victory. The Huskies are an imposing team, but Purdue has their own strengths with Edey in the center and a seasoned backcourt. While the showdown between Edey and Donovan Clingan is the main event, the outcome of this game will depend on Purdue’s ability to defend the perimeter and limit UConn’s open shots. Despite the close matchup on paper, UConn has a larger margin for error and could potentially pull off another double-digit win. — Paul Myerberg

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UConn vs. Purdue prediction: Purdue stays close before UConn pulls away

Zach Edey may have been dominant in the past two seasons, but he won’t be the best player on the court on Monday. Donovan Clingan possesses the same length as Edey and has a significant advantage in athletic ability, which will be crucial in defending him. In order for Purdue to have a chance, they must rely on their exceptional 3-point shooting, as they currently rank first in the country in percentage from behind the arc. This means that Fletcher Loyer and Lance Jones need to bring their A-game for the entire 40 minutes. Alabama demonstrated that you can keep up with Connecticut if you shoot well, but ultimately, the Huskies pulled away. Expect a similar outcome as UConn aims to become the first team to repeat in 17 years. — Erick Smith

Purdue vs. UConn prediction: Purdue can win but it will be UConn that prevails

Purdue has a real chance of winning this game against UConn. While UConn is the top-ranked team in the field, they are not invincible. However, it will require a near-perfect performance from Purdue to come out on top. Just look at Alabama’s game on Saturday night – they played exceptionally well for 35 minutes, but eventually ran out of steam. The Boilermakers, on the other hand, have improved immensely since last March and have shown great consistency. They are more than capable of playing a flawless game. However, I have to admit that going into the tournament, I believed UConn would have the upper hand due to their numerous weapons. And I still stand by that conclusion. – Eddie Timanus

UConn vs. Purdue prediction: Only a perfect game by Purdue can stop UConn

I believe that Purdue’s guards will face a tough challenge in this matchup against UConn. The athleticism of UConn’s players is likely to expose the limitations of Purdue’s guards, putting them at a disadvantage. UConn has a strong offensive game, and even if they have a poor shooting day, they have a knack for finding other ways to stay effective. To keep the game close, Purdue will have to play near flawlessly. Dan Wolken shares the same sentiment, stating, “Purdue will have to play nearly a perfect game to keep this close.”

UConn vs. Purdue preview: What to know

The highly anticipated national championship game between UConn and Purdue not only showcases the top teams in the country but also involves passionate fan bases. Whichever team emerges victorious, winning the championship would hold significant meaning. UConn, a powerhouse program with a storied history, aims to secure their second consecutive title and sixth overall. On the other hand, Purdue, often overshadowed by basketball-crazed Indiana, is eager to finally raise their first championship banner.

The focal point of this matchup revolves around the clash between two dominant big men. Standing at 7-2, UConn’s Donovan Clingan rarely finds himself at a height disadvantage in the post. However, Purdue’s Zach Edey will actually have two inches over him. Nonetheless, Edey will face a tougher challenge than usual when it comes to executing his trademark jump hook, as his defender will possess a reach that is nearly equal to his own. Interestingly, the outcome of the game is likely to be determined on the perimeter. UConn’s relentless defensive pressure will pose a significant obstacle for Purdue’s Braden Smith, who serves as the team’s primary ball handler.

Lance Jones and Fletcher Loyer will have the responsibility of knocking down their fair share of 3-pointers, similar to what Alabama was able to accomplish on Saturday night, in order to keep up with the Huskies. While UConn’s defensive prowess has been highly praised throughout the season, their offensive efficiency is equally impressive. Tristen Newton has been exceptional in breaking down opposing defenses and setting up his teammates for scoring opportunities. Purdue is unlikely to make the same mistake of leaving Stephon Castle unguarded, but Cam Spencer and Alex Karaban also pose a significant threat and will command attention from the defense. According to Eddie Timanus, these players will play a crucial role in the upcoming game.

UConn vs. Purdue predictions

UConn versus Purdue is a highly anticipated matchup in college basketball, featuring two powerhouse teams. All eyes will be on Zach Edey as he faces the formidable Huskies. While Purdue has the talent to be a national championship contender in any other year, this Connecticut team appears unstoppable. Expect Stephon Castle to have another impressive performance, but keep an eye out for Cam Spencer, who is poised to shine. The game remains close for the majority of the time, but the Huskies ultimately pull away in the end to secure their second consecutive national championship. – Jordan Mendoza

Check out all of USA TODAY Sports’ predictions here.

UConn vs. Purdue picks

USA TODAY Sports’ staff has made their picks for the national championship game between UConn and Purdue.

    • Jordan Mendoza: UConn
    • Paul Myerberg: UConn
    • Erick Smith: UConn
    • Eddie Timanus: UConn
    • Dan Wolken: UConn

UConn vs. Purdue odds to win national championship

According to BetMGM, the Huskies are favored to win the national championship over the Boilermakers.

    • Spread: UConn (-7)
    • Moneylines: UConn (-310); Purdue (+250)
    • Over/under: 145.5

What to know about Zach Edey, Purdue’s star big man

The potential back-to-back national player of the year, Zach Edey, is leading Purdue into the men’s NCAA Tournament once again. As a No. 1 seed for the second consecutive season, Edey aims to bring Purdue to the Final Four for the first time since 1980. After being eliminated by a No. 16 seed last year, the team is determined to achieve a better outcome this time. If Purdue succeeds, Edey will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their journey to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. To learn more about Purdue center Zach Edey, continue reading.

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Who won 2023 men’s March Madness?

In Houston, at NRG Stadium, the UConn Huskies secured a 76-59 victory over the San Diego State Aztecs, claiming their fifth championship overall and their first since 2014. Connecticut aims to make history by becoming the first team since the Florida Gators in 2006 and 2007 to win consecutive championships.

Purdue’s path to 2024 national championship game

The Purdue Boilermakers, the No. 1 seed in the Midwest Region, have had a relatively smooth journey to the Final Four in this year’s NCAA Tournament. They started with a convincing victory over No. 16 seed Grambling in the opening round, followed by a blowout win against No. 8 Utah State. In the Sweet 16, they defeated No. 5 Gonzaga and narrowly edged out No. 2 Tennessee in the regional final. All season long, the Boilermakers, led by the 7-foot-4 All-American Zach Edey, have consistently ranked at or near the top of the USA TODAY coaches poll, including eight weeks at No. 1. Steve Gardner.

UConn NCAA Tournament championship game history

The men’s basketball team from Connecticut may not have the same level of success as their women’s team, which has secured a remarkable 11 national championships. However, when it comes to the big game, the men’s program has been nothing short of flawless. With a perfect 5-0 record in men’s NCAA Tournament championship games, the Huskies have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. In addition to their championship victories, the Huskies have also made seven Final Four appearances, including their current run in 2024. This impressive track record speaks volumes about the team’s skill and determination.

Zach Edey vs. Donovan Clingan is one of many great matchups in March Madness title game

In the world of college basketball, two dominant players have emerged as leaders for their respective teams. Donovan Clingan is making waves with his exceptional skills on the court while representing No. 1 Connecticut. On the other hand, Zach Edey is showcasing his talent and leading No. 1 Purdue to victory. Both players are proving to be formidable forces in their respective teams’ pursuit of success.

The national championship game on Monday night is set to be a thrilling matchup between the top two teams of the season. However, what makes this game even more exciting is the clash between the talented big men on both teams. This showdown between the giants of the NCAA men’s tournament promises to be one of the most captivating pairings in recent history.

Edey holds the prestigious title of being the most decorated player in the history of the program. With two Naismith player of the year awards to his name, he joins the esteemed company of Bill Walton and Ralph Sampson as the only athletes to have won the award multiple times.

According to teammate Hassan Diarra, Clingan has been deemed as “the most impactful player in the country.” Throughout the tournament, the sophomore has showcased the best basketball of his career, leading to him being awarded the MVP in the East Region. In the Final Four, Clingan demonstrated his skills by scoring 18 points and making four blocks against No. 4 Alabama.

The showdown between Edey and Clingan is one of the most eagerly anticipated battles between frontcourt players in the history of championship games. Let’s delve into the details of Monday’s match and take a look at four other memorable matchups from the past four decades.

How tall is Zach Edey?

Purdue’s center, Zach Edey, stands at an impressive height of 7-foot-4, making him one of the tallest players in college basketball this season. Notably, he remains the tallest player in the ongoing 2024 NCAA Tournament. Additionally, Purdue states that Edey carries a weight of 300 pounds.

Edey’s dominance on the college basketball court is unmatched, making him one of the most formidable players in the game today. His impressive list of achievements speaks volumes about his skills and abilities. It comes as no surprise that opponents find it challenging to handle the towering presence of the Boilermakers’ big man.

Has Purdue ever won a national championship in men’s basketball?

In 1969, Purdue had a shot at winning a national championship. Led by star guard Rick Mount, the Boilermakers had a stellar 23-5 overall record and clinched the Big Ten title. Their journey in the NCAA Tournament took them to the Final Four in Louisville, Kentucky, after defeating Miami (Ohio) and Marquette in the regionals. The semifinals saw Purdue dominating North Carolina with an impressive 92-65 victory. However, their championship dreams were shattered by John Wooden’s formidable UCLA team. In the title game, Purdue fell short, losing 92-72 as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s outstanding performance of 37 points and 20 rebounds propelled UCLA to their third consecutive NCAA title. This remains the closest Purdue has ever come to winning a national championship. (Steve Gardner)

Donovan Clingan powering Connecticut as college basketball’s ‘most impactful player’

Donovan Clingan’s choice to come back for another season has been instrumental in propelling the Huskies’ growth into a dominant force, transforming Clingan into a highly sought-after big-man prospect and a potential lottery pick in the upcoming NBA draft.

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“He has matured,” stated UConn coach Dan Hurley. “Last year, he simply wasn’t prepared, both in terms of his personal growth and as a young man. He was still just a young adult, not ready to navigate the challenging NBA environment and its unforgiving locker rooms. This past year has been crucial for his development and overall progress.”

As Clingan has flourished, the Huskies have also experienced significant growth. This correlation is no mere coincidence. Check out Paul Myerberg’s comprehensive feature for further insights.

Zach Edey NBA draft projection

Despite being one of the most dominant players in college basketball, there are concerns that Zach Edey’s game may not translate well to the NBA due to his limited mobility.

According to Jeff Zilgitt and Scooby Axson of USA TODAY Sports, there are concerns about Edey’s foot speed and whether it will be able to keep up with the fast-paced style of the next level. However, if he continues to perform at a high level throughout March, there is a possibility that he could be selected in the first round of the draft in late June.

Boilermakers seek title on anniversary of historic Purdue celebration

In pursuit of its maiden men’s basketball championship tonight, Purdue University reminisces a victorious moment from 25 years ago. Back in 1999, the Purdue women’s team triumphed, securing the university’s first and only basketball title with a commanding 62-45 victory over Duke. At the helm of that championship-winning squad was Stephanie White, who earned the prestigious Wade Trophy as the top women’s college basketball player in 1999. Notably, White’s coaching prowess was recognized last year when she was named WNBA coach of the year for her exceptional leadership of the Connecticut Sun.

Tonight, if UConn secures a victory, it will mark three significant anniversaries. The Huskies triumphed in their inaugural men’s basketball championship 25 years ago in 1999. Furthermore, two decades ago, UConn etched their name in history by triumphing in both the men’s and women’s tournaments in 2004. Astonishingly, they replicated this extraordinary achievement ten years later in 2014. These remarkable milestones serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of UConn basketball. — Ellen Horrow

Connecticut looking to join elite list of repeat champs

The Huskies will make history if they defeat Purdue and secure their second consecutive national championship in the NCAA Tournament. Only seven schools have achieved this feat in the tournament’s 85-year history.

These are the schools that have won consecutive national championships in the men’s NCAA Tournament throughout history:

    • Oklahoma State: 1945-46
    • Kentucky: 1948-49
    • San Francisco: 1955-56
    • Cincinnati: 1961-62
    • UCLA: 1964-65, 1967-73
    • Duke: 1991-92
    • Florida: 2006-07

– Jordan Mendoza is the author of the quoted statement.

Where is Kemba Walker now?

Connecticut’s journey to the championship in 2011 was propelled by the exceptional skills of Kemba Walker. This talented point guard earned the nickname “Cardiac Kemba” due to his ability to deliver clutch shots when it mattered the most. One of his most memorable moments was a buzzer-beater that secured victory in the Big East tournament.

Walker began his professional basketball career with the Charlotte Bobcats, who later became the Hornets. He also had stints with the Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks.

The talented Bronx native has taken his skills abroad this season and is now playing for AS Monaco in the EuroLeague. In a game against his former Huskies teammate Shabazz Napier and Armani Milan, he contributed 10 points and three rebounds in March. As a bench player, Walker maintains an average of 4.5 points per game. — Victoria Hernandez

Purdue’s Zach Edey vs. UConn’s Donovan Clingan

Connecticut coach Dan Hurley expressed his excitement for what he called a “battle of the giants.” According to him, having the two top teams facing off on Monday night is a fantastic opportunity for college basketball.

‘It’s about time’: Drew Brees proud of Purdue in national championship

During an appearance on TNT’s pregame show before the national championship matchup against the Connecticut Huskies, he expressed his satisfaction, saying, “It’s about time.”

“We are incredibly proud of our basketball program. Our pride stems from not only focusing on skill development, but also on character and leadership development, as well as ensuring our players graduate,” he expressed. “Matt Painter has done an exceptional job, and the way we ended last season was disappointing, losing as a No. 1 seed in the first round. However, we have made a strong comeback this season, dominating throughout the regular season and carrying the No. 1 ranking, which is no easy feat. Having that target on our backs, we have fought our way to the Finals, and this matchup between Purdue and UConn is exactly what everyone wanted to see.”

Brees expressed his excitement for the highly anticipated clash between Purdue’s Zach Edey and Connecticut’s Donovan Clingan, both towering figures on the court. He emphasized that the Boilermakers are fully prepared for this significant matchup.

“You win the game before stepping on the court,” he asserted confidently. “And I truly believe that we have already won the game even before setting foot on the court. Our meticulous preparation, our unwavering mindset, and our ability to overcome all challenges have proven that we deserve to be here,” he stated. – Victoria Hernandez.

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