Fans rejoice : Purdue Boilermakers basketball fans are celebrating the return of a beloved legend. Rik Mount, the 78-year-old former Purdue star, has accepted a one -time advisory role with the team, making a poignant return to program that …

Fans rejoice : Purdue Boilermakers basketball fans are celebrating the return of a beloved legend. Rik Mount, the 78-year-old former Purdue star, has accepted a one -time advisory role with the team, making a poignant return to program that …

**Fans Rejoice: Purdue Boilermakers Welcome Back Legend Rik Mount in Special Advisory Role**

Purdue Boilermakers basketball fans are celebrating the return of one of the program’s most iconic figures. Rik Mount, the 78-year-old former Purdue superstar and college basketball legend, has officially accepted a one-time advisory role with the team. The news has sparked excitement throughout the Purdue community, as Mount makes a heartfelt return to the program that launched his legendary career.

Known for his deadly shooting and competitive fire, Mount was a trailblazer during his time with the Boilermakers from 1967 to 1970. He was the first high school player in Indiana history to grace the cover of *Sports Illustrated* and quickly lived up to the hype at Purdue, where he averaged over 30 points per game across three varsity seasons. Mount led the Boilermakers to the NCAA championship game in 1969 and remains one of the school’s all-time greats.

Now, more than five decades since he last suited up in black and gold, Mount returns in a new capacity — as a mentor and symbolic bridge between Purdue’s storied past and its promising present.

According to Purdue Athletics, Mount’s advisory role will include special appearances at team practices, mentorship sessions with players, and contributions to leadership development programs within the basketball program. While he won’t be involved in day-to-day coaching decisions, his presence is expected to offer invaluable wisdom and inspiration.

“It’s an incredible honor to be back where it all began,” Mount said in a statement. “Purdue means the world to me. This program gave me the platform to become the player and man I am today. To have the opportunity to talk with these young guys, share stories, and pass on what I’ve learned — that’s special.”

Purdue head coach Matt Painter welcomed the news with enthusiasm. “Rik is not just a legend at Purdue — he’s a symbol of excellence and tradition in college basketball,” Painter said. “Having him around our players, sharing his journey and what it means to wear the Purdue jersey, will be an inspiration.”

Fans and alumni quickly took to social media to celebrate the announcement. Many recalled watching Mount light up Mackey Arena with his silky jump shot and fearless scoring ability. Others praised the university for honoring its history and reinforcing the bond between generations of Boilermakers.

The timing couldn’t be better. With Purdue poised for another strong NCAA Tournament run in the 2024–2025 season, Mount’s return adds a layer of motivation and emotional momentum. His presence is expected to resonate not only with the players but also with fans eager to see a deep postseason push.

Beyond basketball, Mount’s return is also a reminder of the enduring power of legacy. In an age of rapid change in college sports, bringing a figure like Mount back into the fold reinforces the values that have long defined Purdue basketball: pride, perseverance, and excellence.

As fans fill Mackey Arena this season, they’ll not only cheer for today’s stars but also for a legend who helped put Purdue on the national map. Rik Mount is home again — and Boilermaker Nation couldn’t be prouder.

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