Diverging Paths: Purdue’s National Runner-Up Transfers Find New Homes

The college basketball landscape is ever-evolving, and the recent transfer decisions of two players from Purdue’s national runner-up roster have captured the attention of fans and analysts alike.

Ethan Morton, the Purdue guard, has announced his commitment to Colorado State, marking a new chapter in his collegiate career. This decision comes just a week after his former teammate, Mason Gillis, made the move to join the revamped Duke roster.

Both players have one remaining season of eligibility, and their respective choices reflect the diverse opportunities available in the ever-changing world of college basketball.

Gillis, who spent five seasons in West Lafayette, was Purdue’s best 3-point shooter last season, converting 46.8% of his attempts and averaging 6.5 points per game off the bench. His decision to join Duke’s roster, which has seen seven players depart via the transfer portal this offseason, showcases his desire to contribute to a program with a rich basketball tradition.

On the other hand, Morton’s journey has taken a different path. After steadily increasing his role over his first three seasons at Purdue, the guard saw his playing time diminish to just 10 minutes per game last season, scoring only 24 total points and logging just seven minutes in the NCAA Tournament. His transfer to Colorado State, a program that made the second round of the NCAA Tournament this year, presents an opportunity for him to regain his footing and make a significant impact.

The departures of Zach Edey, Jones, Gillis, and Morton from Purdue’s Big Ten championship roster highlight the dynamic nature of college basketball. As players seek new challenges and opportunities, the landscape continues to evolve, leaving fans and analysts alike eager to see how these transfers will shape the future of the sport.