Painter Trims Roster

The Boiling Point: Purdue coach Matt Painter trims his roster.

Purdue men’s basketball coach Matt Painter trimmed his roster today for the 2011 USA men’s World University Games.  The six players that did not make the team are Missouri guard Kim English, Cincinnati forward Yancy Gates, Lehigh guard C.J. McCollum, Texas A&M forward Khris Middleton, Alabama forward Tony Mitchell, and Northwestern forward John Shurna.  There are now 14 players vying for 12 roster spots.  The two Big Ten players left are Draymond Green from Michigan State and Trevor Mbakwe of Minnesota. Here is what Painter told ESPN:

"“I think it’s a great group,” said USA and Purdue coach Matt Painter “We have a lot of balance. I think on the interior we have some shot-blockers, we have some athletes, guys that can really go and get the basketball and some real good shooters. We have some good, interchangeable parts, and a lot of talent, both returning talent and young. I’m really excited about the mix we have.”"

Painter was selected to be the head coach of this team last year.  Former Boiler and current Tennessee coach Cuonzo Martin and Butler coach Brad Stevens join him as assistants.  They are currently in Colorado Springs, Colorado working the team out.  On August 11th they will play an exhibition in Huizho, China against Chinese pro team New Century.  They begin pool play on August 13th.  Since 1965 the U.S. has a 131-8 record.