The Indiana Pacers defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 107-103 on Wednesday, capping a night that featured a significant reunion for two pillars of Purdue’s 2024 NCAA title run. Both Zach Edey and Braden Smith started for their respective teams, marking a rare on-court meeting for the former Big Ten teammates. Smith secured his second NBA start with the Pacers, while Edey continued his dominant tenure with Memphis, creating an immediate focal point for fans tracking the legacy of the 2023-24 Boilermakers.
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Statistically, both players delivered in double figures, reinforcing their status as elite NBA talents. Edey posted 11 points on efficient 4-of-6 shooting and dominated the glass with 13 rebounds. His presence was particularly stifling against opposing centers, as he held Indiana’s Ivica Zubac to just one point during the latter’s return from an ankle sprain. Smith contributed 10 points on 5-of-9 shooting and dished out five assists, extending his streak of consecutive double-figure scoring games and facilitating the Pacers’ offensive flow.
The competitive intensity of the matchup was underscored by the post-game camaraderie between the two former teammates. Edey and Smith exchanged jerseys following the final buzzer, a gesture of mutual respect that was captured by the Pacers’ social media teams. This moment highlighted the enduring bond between the two players, who were instrumental in leading Purdue to the 2024 NCAA Championship Game, with Edey earning consensus national player of the year honors.
Source: Yahoo Sports
