An Epochal open letter from Female Purdue basketball Head coach for Abbey Ellis to fans community…….. see det..
An Epochal Open Letter: Abbey Ellis Shares a Heartfelt Farewell with Purdue Fans and Community
West Lafayette, IN – May 2025
In a powerful and emotional moment that’s resonating across the Purdue Boilermakers community, women’s basketball star Abbey Ellis has penned an open letter to fans, teammates, coaches, and the broader Boilermaker family — a sincere and heartfelt message marking the end of a transformative chapter in her life.
After three incredible seasons with Purdue, where she left her mark as one of the most impactful guards in recent memory, Ellis — a native of Melbourne, Australia — is now moving on to the next phase of her career. But not before taking the time to express just how deeply her experience in West Lafayette has shaped her.
A Journey That Changed Everything
The open letter begins with gratitude:
“Dear Purdue Family,
When I stepped onto campus for the first time, I was a long way from home — in miles and in spirit. But I quickly realized I wasn’t alone. I found a second family here, one that embraced me, challenged me, and helped me grow into the woman I am today.”
Ellis transferred to Purdue from Cal Poly in 2021 and became an immediate leader on and off the court. Known for her explosive first step, sharp court vision, and infectious energy, she helped lead the Boilermakers back to national relevance, including a return to the NCAA Tournament and multiple postseason appearances.
In the letter, she reminisces about late-night practices, locker room laughter, long bus rides, and the sound of Mackey Arena erupting after a game-winning shot.
“The memories I’ve made here — they live in my heart forever. The chants, the cheers, the kids asking for autographs after the game… those are the things that made me fall in love with the game all over again.”
Honoring Her Roots and Embracing the Future
Abbey also uses her letter to reflect on her identity — as a student, athlete, international player, and woman.
“Coming from Australia to play in the U.S. wasn’t easy. I missed my family, the holidays, even the taste of home. But Purdue gave me more than just a court — it gave me purpose. It gave me a voice. And it gave me people who believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself.”
Ellis, who graduated this spring with a degree in Early Childhood Education, has already signed a professional contract in the WNBL (Women’s National Basketball League) in Australia. Her journey continues, but she promises that Purdue will always be part of her soul.
“I’ll carry black and gold with me wherever I go. Purdue made me brave. It made me resilient. It made me feel like I belonged.”
Tributes to Teammates, Coaches, and Fans
Abbey takes time to thank her coaches, including Head Coach Katie Gearlds, for believing in her potential and pushing her to be her best every day.
“Coach Katie, thank you for seeing something in me — not just the player, but the person. Thank you for the hard conversations, the endless encouragement, and for always keeping it real. You’ve shaped me in ways I’ll never forget.”
To her teammates, she writes:
“You girls are more than teammates — you’re my sisters. We’ve sweated, cried, laughed, and fought together. And I wouldn’t trade a single second. You made this ride unforgettable.”
And of course, she saves special love for the fans:
“To every fan who wore my number, who stood in line for a picture, or who simply believed in us even after a tough loss — thank you. You gave me strength when I didn’t have much left. You made me feel like I was home.”
A Message to the Next Generation
In a particularly poignant section of her letter, Ellis addresses young athletes — especially young girls who dream of playing college basketball:
“Never let anyone tell you you’re too small, too far from home, or too different. Your dreams are valid. Your heart is enough. Work hard. Stay kind. And don’t be afraid to take up space — even if it scares you.”
A Legacy of Grit, Grace, and Growth
Abbey Ellis leaves Purdue with over 1,100 career points, an All-Big Ten selection, and a legacy of leadership and integrity. But to many, her real impact can’t be measured in stats or accolades.
She inspired. She uplifted. She showed what it means to lead with both heart and hustle.
As she signs off her letter, she leaves a final message:
“This isn’t goodbye. It’s see you later. Boiler Up — always.”
Purdue Athletics and fans across the world have flooded social media with messages of love, support, and appreciation for Ellis, praising her for her grace, authenticity, and everything she brought to the program.
While her time in West Lafayette may be over, the legacy of Abbey Ellis — the girl from Melbourne who captured the heart of Boilermaker Nation — is just beginning to unfold.
WATCH FULL VIDEO: Abbey Ellis Reads Her Letter to Fans [Video Placeholder]
Follow Abbey’s journey in the WNBL and future international competition via @abbeyellis on Instagram.
