Big time recruit would help Purdue reach Final Four

Publication Date: 10/23/2007

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Tyler Zeller, please come to Purdue.

This is a cry that many people have shared over the recent months. I share that cry with them.

There is a Facebook group pleading to help coach Matt Painter recruit Tyler Zeller. There's a 25 percent chance he could come to Purdue as his top choices are Purdue, Indiana, North Carolina and Notre Dame.

Nothing would be sweeter than landing the No. 22 recruit in Rivals 150 for 2008. Having Zeller would be beneficial for Purdue in more ways than one.

First, dynasty. Zeller is the type of player you could build a program around. Purdue is already making a turn to become a threat in the conference and would only strengthen if Zeller came to West Lafayette. Also, freshmen E'Twaun Moore, JuJuan Johnson, Scott Martin and the other recruits who make up the No. 7 recruiting class could complement the returning squad nicely.

Second, depth. With the dismissal of junior Gordon Watt the same day Zeller made his official visit, the ever-growing problem with big men just got bigger. Zeller would help greatly with his 6-foot-11, 220-pound frame. Besides, with Watt off the team, more playing time could be up for grabs for the freshman this year and next.

Third, reputation. Let's face it, North Carolina is good enough, Notre Dame got his brother and Indiana is Purdue's most hated rival. Many coaches, not just basketball, have stressed how important it is to get the best talent from your home state.

Also, what could be better than making Kelvin Sampson and Indiana look like the losers when Zeller puts on the Old Gold and Black rather than the disgusting Crimson and Crap, err, Cream?

Yes, having the No. 22 recruit in the nation would be great not just for Purdue, but for Zeller as well. With a stacked team and a fierce coach, it's hard to say Purdue wouldn't make a play for the Final Four in a few years.

So please, Tyler Zeller, come to Purdue.

Josh Michaels is a junior in the College of Liberal Arts. He can be reached via e-mail at sports@purdueexponent.org