Behind the Scenes: Meet the Parents of Purdue Basketball Star Zach Edey

The story behind the towering presence of Purdue University‘s basketball sensation, Zach Edey, involves the unwavering support and dedication of his parents, Julia and Glen Edey. Raised in Toronto‘s Leaside neighborhood, Zach’s journey to becoming a star player for the Boilermakers was shaped by the encouragement and guidance of his loving family.

One of Canada‘s tallest college basketball athletes, Zach Edey did not take the conventional route to basketball stardom. Despite his imposing stature at 7’4″ and 300 pounds, his parents, Julia and Glen, allowed him to explore various sports before ultimately deciding to pursue basketball. Julia, a first-generation Chinese Canadian, and Glen, raised in Canada, nurtured Zach’s talents as he embarked on his basketball journey.

Julia and Glen’s unwavering support for Zach is a testament to their upbringing. Julia, a retired mechanical engineer, and Glen, a former gas station attendant, instilled a strong work ethic in their son from an early age. Their dedication to Zach’s success is palpable in their active involvement in his basketball career.

Julia’s personal experiences in sports, including breaking city records in discus, and Glen’s background in baseball, provided a solid foundation for Zach’s athletic pursuits. The Edey family’s involvement in sports transcends generations, with both Julia and Glen passing down their love for sports to Zach and his younger brother, Doug Edey.

Julia’s retirement from her engineering career coincided with Zach’s collegiate basketball journey, allowing her to be a constant presence at Purdue games. Her enthusiastic support for the Boilermakers has earned her a special place among fans in West Lafayette. Julia’s social media presence and merch-making skills have further solidified her status as a beloved figure in the Purdue basketball community.

The Edey family’s ties to Canada and the NBA are evident in their involvement in various basketball events, including games in Toronto against American universities. Zach’s rise to stardom has not only put him on the national stage but has also brought attention to his family’s unwavering support throughout his career.

Julia’s post-retirement hobbies, such as beekeeping and volunteer work with local charities, showcase her diverse interests beyond basketball. Her dedication to giving back to the community aligns with the values instilled in Zach by his parents. The Edey family’s story goes beyond basketball fame, highlighting their close-knit bond and shared passion for supporting each other and those around them.