Caden Pierce, a highly acclaimed former player from Princeton, has made public his commitment to join Purdue's basketball program for the upcoming 2026-27 season. This move follows a period where Pierce opted to focus on completing his academic pursuits, leading him to sit out the current season. His decision underscores a desire for both a high-caliber athletic environment and geographical closeness to his family.
Pierce, a 6-foot-7 forward, garnered significant attention during his time at Princeton, where he earned the prestigious Ivy League Player of the Year award in the 2023-24 season. His collegiate career has been marked by consistent performance and leadership. In evaluating his next steps, Pierce weighed offers from several prominent basketball institutions, including UConn, Duke, Gonzaga, and Louisville. Ultimately, the allure of Purdue's established program under Coach Matt Painter, combined with the personal advantage of being near his brother, Alec, a wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts, solidified his choice.
His impact at Princeton was immediate and substantial. During the 2022-23 season, Pierce played a pivotal role in the Tigers' surprising run to the Sweet Sixteen in the NCAA Tournament, where they, as a No. 15 seed, overcame formidable opponents like Arizona and Missouri. That year, he averaged 8.2 points and 7.3 rebounds, earning him the Ivy League Rookie of the Year title. His performance further escalated in the subsequent season, where he led the league with averages of 16.6 points and 9.2 rebounds, showcasing an impressive 54.6% shooting accuracy from the field. Despite an ankle injury in his final season, he maintained strong averages of 11.2 points and 7.2 rebounds, securing a spot on the All-Ivy second team.
Throughout his three seasons with the Tigers, Pierce accumulated a total of 1,069 points and 710 rebounds across 90 games, 89 of which he started. His presence contributed significantly to Princeton's impressive 66-25 record during this period. The announcement of his intention to transfer came during the summer, with his formal entry into the transfer portal occurring in October. This transitional year, spent away from competitive basketball, has offered Pierce a unique perspective, deepening his appreciation for the sport's competitive nature and the camaraderie found within a team.
The transition to Purdue represents a significant new chapter for Caden Pierce. His choice was influenced by the esteemed reputation of Purdue's basketball program and the vibrant atmosphere of Mackey Arena. This move allows him to continue his development within a top-tier collegiate program while also fostering closer ties with his family. The opportunity to contribute to a program with such a rich history and passionate fan base was a major draw, highlighting his desire to be part of something truly special.
