For Zach Edey, like Caitlin Clark, a somber end to an incredible college career

Edey and Clark were not able to carry their teams all the way to the title, but don't sell them short

By Dennis Dodd Apr 9, 2024 at 2:29 am ET• 5 min read

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Zach Edey went quietly. 

No, not like that. The man had 37 points Monday night against UConn, the most in a national championship game since 1978. But Purdue's 7-foot-4 center left the State Farm Insurance court the same way he entered the program four years ago: stoically. 

A subdued exit was probably assured before the 75-60 loss in the national championship game. Edey reveals himself about as often as an eclipse. Which, of course, was fitting considering the events Monday afternoon.

No sun for a few minutes in large swatches of the country. Even Edey disappeared at a key time. There was a 16½-minute span Monday where -- for all his greatness -- Edey went 1-for-8 including an airball from the line and two turnovers. After scoring 16 in the first 15minutes of the game, Edey was still outstanding. He was also neutralized. The aircraft carrier who had averaged 32 minutes per game this season and 29.5 points in the tournament was gassed with four minutes left in the final college game of his career.

Yes, Zach Edey went quietly. He also had company. The day before, Iowa's Caitlin Clark ended her career losing 87-75 to South Carolina in the women's championship game. Two national players of the year. Two national stories. Two phenomena.