Omer Mayer showcased at FIBA U19 World Cup what he brings to Purdue basketball backcourt
Mayer committed to Purdue basketball and will be a freshman for the 2025-26 season, and his fit alongside All-American Braden Smith was proven in Switzerland. And, though Israel lost 79-55 to Slovenia in a quarterfinal Friday, he drew such high praise that some saw the 18-year-old as a NBA talent already.
Mayer, a 6-foot-4, 215-pounder, showcased his ability in every facet of the game. He can drive, shoot from the perimeter, initiate the offense, rebound and defend. His four-game tournament totals (Israel won a group stage game by forfeit) were 20 points, 5 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 2 steals per game. He did have 3 turnovers per contest, escalated by six in the loss to Slovenia. He shot 43.1% from the floor and was 13 for 34 (38.4%) on 3-pointers.
His professional career coincided with Boilermakers legend Trevion Williams as teammates with Maccabi Tel-Aviv. Mayer averaged 5.5 points, 2.1 assists in 13 games in the Israeli league and 2.6 points, 2.0 assists in EuroLeague play.
Insider: How Omer Mayer can elevate Purdue basketball lineup in championship hopeful season, beyond
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