Caden Pierce ’26 Transfers to Purdue Boilermakers, Joins Big Ten

Caden Pierce, a former standout guard from Princeton, is transferring to Purdue University for his final year of collegiate eligibility. The announcement was made on Friday via social media, marking a significant transition for the 2023–24 Ivy League Player of the Year.

Caden Pierce Joins Purdue Boilermakers

Pierce, who will be playing in the Big Ten, chose Purdue over prominent programs like Duke, Gonzaga, Louisville, and UConn. After five official visits, he expressed that Purdue felt the most like home. “I wanted to go somewhere where I could play,” Pierce stated. “I have one year left and wanted to step in and play a significant role right away.”

Reasons Behind the Transfer

The decision comes after a tumultuous season at Princeton, where the team faced significant changes, including player transfers and coaching adjustments. The Tigers ended their season with an overall record of 8–15 and had to navigate a challenging Ivy League standing.

Personal Connections and Recruitment

Pierce’s previous experiences influenced his choice. He leaned on insights from former teammates who have transferred and emphasized the importance of coaching style. Purdue was one of the first schools to reach out during the transfer process, with head coach Matt Painter and assistant coach P.J. Thompson playing pivotal roles in his recruitment.

Impact at Purdue

As Pierce prepares to join the Boilermakers, he is expected to fill a crucial front court role, succeeding outgoing seniors Trey Kaufman-Renn and Liam Murphy. Purdue currently holds an impressive 20–4 season record and is ranked No. 13 in the AP poll.

• Purdue’s winning history includes 26 regular-season Big Ten championships.
• There are expectations for significant contributions from Pierce to help transition the team as it shifts to a younger roster.
• The Boilermakers are looked upon favorably to compete in the NCAA tournament with 10 teams from the Big Ten projected to participate.

Future Aspirations

Pierce aims to enhance his three-point shooting and overall game during his time at Purdue. He views this opportunity as a stepping stone towards a professional basketball career, with aspirations to reach the NBA by 2027. “Going to a place like Purdue gives you a chance to showcase your talent at a national level,” he remarked.

Excitement for the Upcoming Season

Graduating as a student while practicing with the team over the summer, Pierce looks forward to playing in the renowned Mackey Arena, known for its lively atmosphere. He acknowledges the challenge of returning to competitive play after a year off but is eager to make a positive impact in the Big Ten.

Through this transfer, Caden Pierce aims not only to leave his mark on Purdue’s basketball program but also to fulfill his potential as an athlete in one of college basketball’s leading conferences.