Purdue Lands Top Transfer Forward Caden Pierce

Princeton's Ivy League Player of the Year to join Boilermakers next season

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Purdue basketball has landed a major transfer commitment from Princeton forward Caden Pierce, the former Ivy League Player of the Year. The 6-foot-7 inside-outside forward will enroll at Purdue this summer after redshirting this season to finish his degree at Princeton. Pierce chose Purdue over offers from Louisville, Duke, Gonzaga and Connecticut.

Why it matters

Purdue is adding a versatile, athletic forward who can provide more perimeter skill and defensive versatility to their frontcourt. Pierce's commitment gives the Boilermakers an experienced, proven veteran to complement their young core and helps offset the loss of their standout senior class.

The details

Pierce is a skilled forward who can handle the ball, drive, and shoot from the perimeter. His athleticism and two-way ability will make Purdue more interchangeable on defense and give them another dynamic scoring threat alongside Jack Benter. Purdue is also adding depth and experience with Pierce, who will be a senior, as well as Raleigh Burgess and Antione West coming off redshirts.

  • Pierce is redshirting this season at Princeton and will enroll at Purdue this summer.
  • Purdue is losing a standout senior class after this season.

The players

Caden Pierce

A 6-foot-7 forward and former Ivy League Player of the Year at Princeton who is transferring to Purdue.

Jack Benter

A skilled forward at Purdue who may be able to play alongside Pierce in the Boilermakers' frontcourt.

Raleigh Burgess

A Purdue player coming off a redshirt season who could help address the team's frontcourt needs.

Antione West

Another Purdue player coming off a redshirt season who will add depth and experience to the roster.

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What’s next

Purdue will need to address its frontcourt depth and size in the coming offseason, with the departure of senior Oscar Cluff. The Boilermakers may look to add another experienced big man to complement Pierce and the young core.

The takeaway

Purdue has landed another high-profile transfer target, continuing to build an experienced, versatile roster that can compete at the highest level. Pierce's addition gives the Boilermakers more athleticism, perimeter skill, and depth in the frontcourt as they look to build on their recent success.