JUCO forward will bring athleticism to the Boilermakers
As part signs a 2017 class that figures to make it more athletic, for one thing, Purdue landed a big piece this week, when junior college forward Eden Ewing committed to the Boilermakers.
He'll sign Wednesday, the first day of the early signing period, along with wing Aaron Wheeler and big man Matt Haarms. Purdue is awaiting decisions from other recruits, also.
Ewing chose Purdue over Fresno State, Iowa State and LSU.
"It was everything, from the city, West Lafayette, to the fans," said Ewing, who officially visited in October, the weekend of Purdue's open Fan Day scrimmage in Mackey Arena. "It was everything. I loved their arena. During their scrimmage, they showed love and it was a great atmosphere. There aren't many distractions. It's a small town and I can get done what I need to get done. The apartments are literally right across the street from the gym. I can get over there faster. I loved everything about it."
Purdue is might not be college basketball's most athletic team currently, but the 2017 class to this point is moving the needle in that sense, Ewing in particular.
"I'm a jumper, somebody who you can throw the ball up to and I'll put it on somebody," he said. "That's something I'm really known for - dunking on somebody. I'm not afraid to taking anything to the basket. I'm finishing it or you're getting dunked on. One or the other. I don't really get blocked too much."
Ewing often talks about not being a "selfish" player, possessing an ability and willingness to distribute as a versatile forward.
But he touts his "skill," also.
"I can dribble, pass and definitely knock down a mid-range shot," said Ewing, who averaged around 10 points per game for Tyler last season. "I can finish around the basket, post-up and do things all-around. I feel like I have way, way more work to put into my game. Nowadays in the NBA, guys are all-around players. I have to become more of an all-around player to reach my goal of being in the NBA.
"I can improve my left hand and my three-point shot. Once I get more comfortable with my left hand, it opens up everything else, I think."
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