League tournaments can be a long grind. That could impact which teams advance in March Madness

Purdue had just battled through the Big Ten Tournament, beating three straight NCAA Tournament teams – the last a No. 1 seed in Michigan – to claim a grinding championship in Chicago. “Obviously playing four games in four days is something we haven’t done before,” longtime coach Matt Painter said. League tournaments are over, but could have a lingering impact and offer an indication of what teams are positioned for tournament success.

By AARON BEARD