Cuonzo Martin Looking For NCAA Tourney Bid

The Boiling Point: Former Purdue star and assistant coach Cuonzo Martin is rebuilding Missouri State and will have another nervous NCAA Tournament selection show.

By now, many people know of Cuonzo Martin’s story at Missouri State. The former Purdue star and assistant coach has used his battle with cancer to instill toughness into a program that’s often been an afterthought. In a CBSsportsline.com article, it’s evident Martin wants Missouri State to mirror Matt Painter and the Boilers.

"“That’s the blueprint; that’s what we’re trying to be, is Purdue,” Creekmore said. “Eventually Coach is going to have this program at the top of the Valley."

That’s forward Will Creekmore who is hoping the Purdue-style can help them break a 12-year drought and get into the Big Dance.