Key Highlights
- Rivalry game between Indiana and Purdue in a compelling Friday night matchup.
- Both teams are coming off double-digit losses, making the game even more significant.
- Purdue is listed as an 11.5-point favorite against Indiana.
- The Boilermakers have not suffered Q2 loss this season and could face a fourth home loss in Mackey Arena.
Friday Night Showdown: Indiana vs Purdue
While they are normally rare, college basketball fans have been spoiled by compelling Friday night matchups in recent weeks — including tonight’s game between Indiana and Purdue. By Gary Parrish 19 hrs ago • 1 min read
Compelling college basketball on Friday nights hasn’t always been a thing — but it is now. On the first Friday of this month, we got St.
John’s over UConn. Last Friday, it was Wisconsin over Michigan State. This Friday, it’s a Big Ten showdown between in-state rivals that have seen better days.
This Friday, it’s Indiana at Purdue.
Both are coming off double-digit losses — but, if anything, that just makes the game even bigger because it means the loser of this one will enter next week trying to avoid a three-game losing streak. In other words, it’s a huge game for both.
But I’d argue it’s bigger for Purdue than Indiana, if only because if the Boilermakers lose they’ll A) take their first Q2 loss of the season and B) suffer their fourth loss inside Mackey Arena in the same season for the first time since 2013-2014. Truth is, Indiana is about where it was supposed to be.
The Hoosiers started 38th at KenPom.com and are currently 37th at KenPom.com.
But Purdue was the preseason No.1 in the Associated Press Top 25 poll, meaning the Boilermakers are not supposed to be coming off of a double-digit loss at home — but this is the second time they’re doing it this season.
Trip is scheduled for 8 pm ET. You can watch it on Fox. Purdue is listed as an 11.5-point favorite.
Among the storylines going in is Braden Smith’s pursuit of the NCAA’s all-time assist record. He currently has 986 in his career.
That ranks fifth all-time — one spot ahead of former East Tennessee State star Keith “Mister” Jennigs, one spot below former LIU Brooklyn standout Jason Brickman.
The Big Ten Rivalry
In the last 10 meetings between these in-state rivals, Purdue has won six and Indiana four. The Boilermakers have won the last two games, including a 91-80 victory at Mackey Arena earlier this season.
Bracketology Bubble Watch
Miami (Ohio), VCU lead off a massive weekend for NCAA Tournament cut line. Bracketology experts are watching closely as teams navigate their paths to March Madness.
The key matchup is Indiana at Purdue, where the winner moves closer to securing their spot in the Big Dance and the loser struggles to avoid a three-game losing streak.
Indiana’s Season
Despite starting 38th on KenPom.com, Indiana has shown signs of improvement. The Hoosiers have had tough games against ranked teams but need this win to stay relevant in conference standings and remain competitive for an NCAA Tournament bid.
Purdue’s Struggles
Purdue is the preseason No.1 team that has stumbled twice this season. The Boilermakers are expected to be a top-5 team come March, but their struggles in Mackey Arena highlight inconsistencies and potential weaknesses heading into key conference games.
Tip-off is at 8 pm ET on Friday, with Fox broadcasting the game. The stakes are high for both teams, making this matchup one of the most important games in the Big Ten this week.