There is little question that this season has been one of Matt Painter’s best coaching jobs. Assuming Purdue takes care of business on Saturday at Northwestern he will bring home his third Big Ten championship and second in two seasons. If not for a rebound last year it would be three in a row, too. Even after a frustrating game Tuesday in Minneapolis Purdue has exceeded expectations and with only two seniors (and a possible early departure) the future looks bright as a young team has gained experience for the future.
Painter’s success is drawing some jealous eyes, however, as it appears UCLA may be interested after failing with Indiana alum Steve Alford according to Jeff Borzello at ESPN.