Purdue basketball makes redshirt decision on freshman big man

Decision to redshirt Purdue freshman center Caleb Furst prudent in long run

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Caleb Furst’s college basketball career will begin a year later than originally expected.

Purdue coach Matt Painter announced following Monday’s practice that Furst will redshirt this season. The 6-foot-10 center arrived in West Lafayette this summer after graduating early from Fort Wayne Blackhawk Christian.

Painter said the decision was made after consultation with Furst and his family and is in the best long-term interests of the player.

Purdue freshman Caleb Furst to redshirt

Furst is a highly touted recruit who was ranked among the top 50 players in the 2022 class by ESPN and 247Sports.

He was expected to compete for minutes in Purdue’s frontcourt this season, but Painter said he’s not quite ready for the rigors of college basketball.

“Caleb is a very talented player, but he’s still a little bit raw,” Painter said. “We think it’s in his best interest to redshirt this season and get stronger and more acclimated to the college game.”

Furst will still be able to practice with the team this season and participate in non-contact drills.

He’ll also have the opportunity to work closely with Purdue’s strength and conditioning staff to improve his overall fitness.

Painter said he expects Furst to be a significant contributor to the Boilermakers in the future.

“Caleb has a bright future,” Painter said. “We’re excited to have him in our program and we’re confident that he’ll be a successful player for us.”

Furst is the second Purdue freshman to redshirt this season. Guard Braden Smith also announced earlier this month that he would be taking a redshirt.