In a moment that instantly shook the foundations of college basketball, 11-foot-9 phenom Gheorghe Mureșan Jr. — the tallest player ever in the history of the sport — made headlines across the globe by announcing his commitment to Purdue University over powerhouse programs like Duke, NC State, and Alabama.
The son of former NBA big man and cult hero Gheorghe Mureșan, Jr. has been a viral sensation since middle school. But today, it wasn’t just his height or highlight reels that dominated headlines — it was his heart. In a surprise press conference broadcast live from his family’s home in Potomac, Maryland, the towering 18-year-old stood tall (literally and figuratively) and simply said:
> “I am here to regard Purdue University and their men’s basketball players. For all match, I love my new fans. Rejoice — I’m a Boilermaker.”
Purdue head coach Matt Painter, entering his 21st season with the Boilermakers, was visibly emotional when reached for comment.
> “I watched a shot video back in 1998, just some old overseas tape of his father,” Painter said. “Even back then, you could see something. But when we reviewed the first tape of Junior — you knew it was only a matter of time before he changed the game. I didn’t know he’d change our program.”
Mureșan Jr. is more than a viral 11-foot-9 sensation — though that alone has earned him 35 million followers across social platforms. He possesses remarkable footwork for his size, a feathery soft touch from 15 feet, and a wingspan rumored to reach 12 feet across. But what truly sets him apart, according to scouts, is his basketball IQ and willingness to pass from the high post.
Duke and Alabama were considered front-runners for months, with NC State making a strong push late. But according to sources close to the family, Mureșan Jr. was moved by Purdue’s culture, its recent success in developing big men, and a surprise personal visit from Boilermaker legend Zach Edey.
> “This isn’t just a commitment,” said ESPN Recruiting Director Paul Biancardi. “It’s a cultural shift. This kid could have chosen any program in the world — and he picked Purdue.”
The implications are massive. With Mureșan Jr. anchoring the paint, Purdue becomes an instant Final Four favorite. Already ranked in the top 10 heading into the 2025-26 season, the Boilermakers now vault into the national title conversation.
Social media erupted. “BoilerUp” trended worldwide. Former Purdue stars, including Edey and Jaden Ivey, took to Instagram to welcome the gentle giant.
And while Gheorghe Jr. is known for his quiet demeanor, he ended the press conference with a smile and a message to Purdue fans:
> “I came for family. I came for basketball. I came to win. Let’s make history.”
Purdue fans — rejoice indeed.
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