Indiana bounced back from a tough stretch with a strong 73-58 victory over Purdue at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. This win improved their record to 16-11 and ended a four-game losing streak at home while extending Purdue’s own losing streak to four games.
Here are some key points from Indiana’s convincing win:
1. Dominating the Paint
Indiana’s strategy was simple: attack the paint. Purdue has struggled with interior defense all season, making it easy for teams to score inside. Indiana took full advantage, shooting an impressive 68.6% on two-point attempts (24-for-35) against Purdue. They outscored the Boilermakers 44-18 in the paint, making 15-of-17 attempts on layups. Purdue’s defense has struggled, allowing opponents to shoot nearly 59% on two-point shots in conference games.
2. Defense on Braden Smith
Braden Smith, a standout player for Purdue, faced a challenging game. Indiana’s defense, especially Myles Rice, made it difficult for him. Smith’s struggles were evident as he finished with only eight points, two rebounds, and five assists while committing six turnovers. His uncharacteristic performance contributed to Indiana’s strong run in the second half.
3. Galloway Steps Up
Trey Galloway was a vital player for Indiana, delivering his best performance of the season. He scored 15 points, including a key three-pointer that helped extend Indiana’s lead. Galloway also excelled in playmaking, recording nine assists and just two turnovers while playing the entire second half.
4. Shortened Rotation Works
Coach Mike Woodson adjusted his rotation after halftime, using fewer players. Key contributors like Rice, Galloway, and Luke Goode played crucial roles, especially in the decisive second half. This strategy paid off as Indiana outscored Purdue by 27 points in the last 20 minutes. Each player brought something to the game, with Rice scoring much of his 12 points in the second half and Goode hitting important shots.
5. Boosted Tournament Hopes
This victory was more than just a win; it bolstered Indiana’s chances for an NCAA tournament bid. With four games left in the season, including crucial matchups against Penn State and Ohio State, Indiana is aiming to secure a strong finish. The win against Purdue also marked Indiana’s fourth “Quad One” victory, a critical factor for tournament aspirations.
As Coach Woodson noted, beating Purdue is always special. The rivalry runs deep, and this win brings renewed hope for the team as they look ahead to the remaining games of the season.
Check out this related article: Suns Stumble Against Raptors: A Familiar Pattern Emerges
Source linkPurdue Boilermakers
