Welcome Back, Jack Benter: Purdue’s Quiet X-Factor for 2025-26
Jack Benter may have flown under the radar during the 2024-25 season, but his return to the Purdue basketball roster could quietly become one of the team’s most important developments heading into the new campaign.
The 6-foot-5 in-state guard from Brownstown redshirted his first year with the Boilermakers, preserving four years of eligibility in a stacked backcourt. Instead of logging mop-up duty behind the likes of Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer, CJ Cox, and Myles Colvin, Benter took a developmental year one that now puts him in prime position to make a push in 2025-26.
What Makes Jack Benter Special?
Versatility is Benter’s calling card. Though listed as a guard, head coach Matt Painter sees Benter as a swingman capable of playing the 2, 3, and even the 4 in a pinch. With transfer Liam Murphy recovering from offseason shoulder surgery, Benter has already been logging valuable reps in different spots during Purdue’s summer workouts.
“He has good size to him, he’s a big kid, he’s got good length, good size, can stretch the defense, knows how to play,” Painter said. “He’s a good player, no different than someone like Sasha Stefanovic… Sometimes, if there are more minutes there, he’s going to get more of an opportunity.”
A High Motor and High IQ
During Purdue’s first summer practice, Benter stood out for his hustle and instincts. He grabbed tough rebounds, made the right passes, knocked down open shots, and brought an energy that’s tough to teach. Though not a lockdown defender yet, Benter draws early comparisons to former Boilermaker great Chris Kramer with his willingness to scrap, dive, and battle for loose balls.
He’s not just a glue guy he’s got sneaky athleticism and a knack for making momentum plays. Whether it’s a key steal, a breakaway dunk, or a floor burn that sparks a crowd, Benter has all the ingredients to be a fan favorite.
What Role Could He Play?
Benter will face stiff competition for minutes with newcomers like Omer Mayer and Antione West Jr. joining a deep Purdue rotation. Still, in small-ball lineups or high-energy bench stints, Benter could provide the kind of spark that helps turn close games into wins. His role may be limited at first six to eight minutes here and there but if he continues to stack strong practices, don’t be surprised if his responsibilities grow.
For a program built on development and system-fit talent, Jack Benter feels like the next in line to break through the margins. He may not be a household name just yet but the 2025-26 season could change that quickly.
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