NC State Basketball: 3 keys in their Final Four matchup against Purdue

Contain Zach Edey in the paint

Containing Zach Edey in the paint is easier said than done but with another bruiser in the post like DJ Burns to contend with, things could get interesting in the paint on Saturday.

Given their own bruiser in Burns, it will be adamant that he stays out of foul trouble on the interior when matched up with Edey. Edey is averaging 30.0 points, 16.3 rebounds, and 9.0 free throw attempts per game in the NCAA Tournament while shooting 65.6 percent from the floor. They'll need to do their work early to keep Edey in check, especially on the offensive glass. He's currently averaging 5.3 offensive rebounds per contest. He's also dished out 1.8 assists and swatted 1.8 blocks per game. The Wolfpack will need to do their best to contain Edey's impact or it could be a long night for them on the interior.

Mohamed Diarra becomes the X-Factor in this one. Diarra is producing a double-double with 10.5 points and 11.8 rebounds per game. He should be looked upon to create double team opportunities and utilize his length to alter shots. He's averaging 1.5 blocks per game.

One stat worth noting has been the Wolfpack's ability to hold opponents under 40 percent shooting. They've held their last six opponents under 40 percent shooting from the field in their quest as a Cinderella squad. They've got the depth to contend with Purdue in the frontcourt. Their big men will just need to stay out foul trouble in the painted area or it could be a long night for them.