Purdue Boilermakers 2010 Final Four Betting Odds, Predictions & Picks: Looking to set a program record for most single season victories, the Purdue Boilermakers are now 2 wins away from reaching the third Final Four in school history. Standing in their way in the South Regional Semi-finals will be the top seeded Duke Blue Devils. The winner of this game will take on the victor in the (3) Baylor vs. (10) St. Mary’s game in the Regional Finals.
“They’re a great team, one of the best teams in the country,” said Purdue head coach Matt Painter . “As you go on in the NCAA Tournament, you’re going to continue to play a better team for the most part… It’s a great opportunity for us to go out and compete against a team like Duke.”
With Big Ten Conference Defensive Player of the Year, Chris Kramer locking down the opposition, the Boilermakers have reached a second consecutive round of 16 despite losing their No.2 scoring option Robbie Hummel. Despite losing Hummel, Purdue has not shown signs of weakness.
Their defense, which has been crucial for the Boilmakers, has sustained throughout. But for Purdue to be successful, offense is necessary. This means E’Twaun Moore must shoot well and JaJuan Johnson needs to become consistent as well as effective. If the bench can produce, this team can possibly cause an upset against Duke.
With Painter at the helm of this program over the last five years, Purdue has made four NCAA tournament appearances. Painter has done a terrific job of turning doubters and negativity into motivational tools and positive results this season.
“It seemed as if everyone wanted to pick against us," Painter acknowledged. "After a while, our guys just decided to sit in it and use it as a source of motivation. It worked.”
