Purdue Interested in Boston University Transfer

According to a tweet from GoldandBlackIllustrated.com, Purdue looks to be in good shape with Boston University transfer Jake O’Brien. Since he is a 5th year transfer, he would be able to play immediately. The 6’9″ 220 pound forward decided to transfer after Boston University was banned from America East post-season play since they are moving to the Patriot League. Essentially, that makes it impossible for them to make the NCAA tournament unless they have only a couple of losses.

O’Brien hasn’t played in over a year because of a foot injury. However, he was a favorite to win America East Player of the Year next season. In 2009 O’Brien was the conferences Freshman of the Year and made All-Conference 3rd Team in 2010. Halfway through the next season he injured his foot. In his last full season he averaged 13.6 points and 6.4 rebounds per game. You can get his full stats by clicking here.

There are probably two ways to feel about this potential move. First, is you’re all for it since Purdue can probably use any help they can get next year. While there is talent in the freshman class, the entire front court is largely unproven. Having a very skilled big man like O’Brien could only help. He can also be a mentor for the younger guys.

The other way of thinking is it will only stunt the growth of the young guys. AJ Hammons, Jay Simpson, and Donnie Hale are all skilled post players where playing time will only help. By taking off the gold and black colored glasses, you know it’s going to be a rebuilding year and an average year by Matt Painter era standards. While there is a scholarship open for a one year player, it could be better used on a point guard that can mentor Ronnie Johnson so he isn’t running the show on his own.

This definitely looks like something to follow as Purdue looks to improve the team. As a reminder, Purdue has 2 scholarships for this year to use, but if any transfers are added for more than a year, Purdue would have more than the limit of 13 scholarship players for the 2013 season.