The St. Peter's Peacocks shocked the world once again on Friday after defeating the Purdue Boilermakers in a nail-biting matchup. The Boilermakers opened as heavy favorites to earn the win but St. Peter's upset the odds yet again. The Peacocks have already upset Kentucky and Murray State in the tournament. With the win, they became the first ever 15-seed to reach the Elite Eight.
St. Peter's historic run was extremely unprecedented. They were barely known entering the tournament but snuck in after a solid season. And that alone was an accomplishment on it's own. Even if they had lost to Kentucky to open March Madness it still would have been a successful season for the Peacocks.
But they had no intention of settling.
The Peacocks have displayed high energy in each game which has led to impressive defense and strong offense. They were on point once again on Friday in the 67-64 victory. Daryl Banks III led the charge with 14 points. Clarence Rupert added 11 points and a clutch 3 steals. Doug Edert also contributed 10 points in the win.
But their defense told the story.
St. Peter's limited Purdue to a 42.6 field goal percentage and 23.8 three-point percentage. Additionally, they forced an astounding 15 turnovers. Their incredible defensive effort was vital in overcoming a 36-20 Purdue rebound advantage.
The St. Peter's Peacocks will look to make more history moving forward. They have already accomplished more than any other 15-seed ever has in March Madness, but they now have their sights set on winning in the Elite Eight.