Standing at 7’4″, Zach Edey is already a towering figure on the basketball court, but recently, fans and sports enthusiasts have been curious about his impressive weight loss journey. At a glance, it might seem surprising that a player of his stature would be focused on trimming down. But Edey’s decision to lose weight, specifically shedding 10 pounds, has become a key element of his preparation for his professional aspirations in the NBA.
For Zach, the motivation behind his weight loss isn’t just about aesthetics or looking good in photos—it’s about improving his mobility, performance, and ability to compete at the highest level. In this article, we’ll take a deeper dive into Edey’s weight loss journey, uncovering the driving forces behind it, how he achieved the results, and the emotional and psychological growth that came with it.
The Backstory: A Big Man with Big Expectations
When we think about basketball players, we often imagine them running the court with agility, precision, and energy. For a player like Zach Edey, who has spent most of his life embracing his massive size, the transition to a lighter, more agile version of himself is far from easy. Known for his imposing presence in the paint, Edey has always had to balance his raw strength and size with the demands of a fast-paced game.
“I was always bigger than the other guys,” Edey reflects, “and it helped me dominate in the low post. But I knew that if I wanted to take my game to the next level—especially with my dreams of playing in the NBA—I needed to make some changes.”
Edey’s weight loss journey began in earnest during the 2023-2024 season, when he decided to cut down from 305 pounds to a leaner 295 pounds. While it might seem like a modest change, especially for someone his size, it had profound implications for his performance on the court. His goal wasn’t just about losing weight but becoming a more mobile big man—one who could run faster, jump higher, and react quicker during crucial game moments.
The Emotional Struggles: Facing Doubt and Adapting to Change
The first steps of Edey’s weight loss journey weren’t easy. As a professional athlete, his body has always been a tool—his size a strategic advantage. Changing that, especially when it’s been part of his identity for so long, brought on emotional challenges.
“There were times when I felt like I was losing part of myself,” he admits. “When you’ve been a certain way for so long, it’s hard to imagine anything different. It wasn’t just about shedding weight; it was about questioning what my body could do at a new size. It was tough mentally.”
For a player accustomed to using his mass to his advantage, the idea of reducing his weight felt like a risk. Would he still have the same strength? Would he lose the power that made him so dominant in the paint? These were questions that haunted him throughout the process.
But despite the doubts, Edey pressed on, motivated by his desire to prove that he could be even better—faster, stronger, and more agile. His focus on the bigger picture—his future in the NBA—became a powerful motivator, helping him overcome the mental hurdles that arose.
The Physical Changes: Diet, Exercise, and Intensity
The physical changes Edey undertook were far from easy. His diet, previously centered around maintaining his mass and strength, needed a complete overhaul. Under the guidance of his personal trainer, Luke Zocchi, Edey adopted a more disciplined and focused approach to nutrition. Gone were the days of consuming high-calorie meals simply to maintain his bulk. Instead, he switched to a more balanced approach that emphasized nutrient-dense foods, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates, ensuring that he maintained energy without the excess calories.
“I had to be more thoughtful about what I put into my body,” says Edey. “It wasn’t just about eating less; it was about eating better. I focused on clean food that could fuel my workouts and performance.”
Workouts, too, had to shift. Edey added more cardio and agility training to his routine to improve his mobility. Although strength training remained a significant component of his regimen, he incorporated more functional movements—exercises that mimicked the on-court movements he would need to perform in games.
“I wanted to be lighter on my feet, and that meant running, jumping, and moving differently,” he explains. “I spent a lot of time doing exercises that I never thought I’d do—things that made me feel faster and more nimble.”
Through his new approach, Edey found a sense of freedom in his body that he had never experienced before. As the weight came off, so did some of the mental barriers he had faced. He began to realize that his body could still be powerful and agile without sacrificing his identity as a dominant center.
The Results: More Than Just a Physical Transformation
By the end of his weight loss journey, Edey’s transformation was undeniable. He had lost 10 pounds, but the changes weren’t just physical. His game had elevated as well. With the added mobility, he was able to outmaneuver opponents with ease, contributing more effectively on both ends of the court. He was faster, more agile, and, most importantly, more confident.
“It wasn’t just about losing the weight,” he reflects. “It was about feeling like I could compete at the highest level. The weight loss allowed me to tap into a new kind of energy and strength that I didn’t know I had.”
His improved conditioning made a noticeable difference during games. He was able to stay on the court for longer periods, outpace his defenders, and even show off a finesse that was previously lacking in his game. But what truly stood out was the mental shift. Edey was no longer defined solely by his size. He had become a more versatile player, one who could thrive in multiple situations.
Mental Health and Support: The Role of Mindset in Weight Loss
Throughout his weight loss journey, Edey leaned on a solid support system. His family, coaches, and teammates were instrumental in helping him stay on track. But perhaps the most significant support came from within. As he learned to embrace his transformation, he also discovered a deeper sense of self-assurance. He was no longer just a big man on the court; he was an athlete who had conquered his own mental and physical challenges.
“Eating right, working out, and pushing my limits—it wasn’t easy. But it’s a reminder that change is possible. It doesn’t just happen in the gym; it happens in your mind first.”
A New Beginning for Zach Edey
Zach Edey’s weight loss journey is a testament to the power of transformation—both physically and mentally. For a player of his size, shedding 10 pounds was no small feat. It required discipline, dedication, and a willingness to evolve. But more than that, it demonstrated his determination to take control of his future.
“I know that the work I put in now will help me compete at the highest level, whether it’s college basketball or the NBA,” says Edey. “I’m excited to see where this new version of me can take me.”
For Zach Edey, this is only the beginning. His weight loss journey has not only improved his game, but it has also given him a renewed sense of confidence and strength. As he continues to refine his skills and focus on his goals, one thing is clear—Zach Edey is ready for whatever comes next.
FAQ about Zach Edey’s Weight Loss Journey
Q1: How much weight did Zach Edey lose?
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Zach Edey lost 10 pounds, dropping from 305 pounds to 295 pounds.
Q2: What was the reason behind Zach Edey’s weight loss?
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Edey’s weight loss was motivated by his desire to become a more mobile player, enhance his NBA prospects, and improve his overall performance on the court.
Q3: What changes did Zach Edey make to his diet?
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Edey switched to a healthier, more balanced diet that focused on lean proteins, vegetables, and complex carbs, while cutting back on excess calories.
Q4: How did Zach Edey’s weight loss affect his performance on the court?
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His weight loss improved his mobility, stamina, and agility, allowing him to be more effective on both offense and defense.
Q5: Was Zach Edey’s weight loss easy?
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No, it was a challenging journey that required discipline, hard work, and mental fortitude. However, it was worth the effort, leading to physical and mental growth.
