The No. 1 Purdue Boilermakers defeated Rutgers 81-65 on Tuesday night at Jersey Mike's Arena, securing their first Big Ten win and improving to 8-0. Purdue's veteran core outshined Rutgers' young roster, as highlighted by postgame comments from both coaches. Braden Smith led with 16 points and eight assists in the convincing road win.
Purdue's experienced lineup proved too much for Rutgers' freshman-heavy squad in an 81-65 victory that extended the Boilermakers' unbeaten streak to 8-0. Playing on the road at Jersey Mike's Arena, Purdue pulled away early, leading 49-29 at halftime behind efficient scoring from their seniors.
Braden Smith set the tone, starting with three 3-pointers and finishing with 16 points and eight assists. He showcased his vision with a highlight-reel behind-the-back pass to Oscar Cluff for a second-half dunk. Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell praised Smith's all-around game, saying, "He's such a good shooter now. Not only do you have to guard him on pick-and-rolls to pass the ball, and he has elite vision, but he's tremendously crafty." Pikiell added, "I'll be glad when he graduates, that's for sure," noting Smith's potential to break Bobby Hurley's all-time assists record.
Purdue coach Matt Painter reflected on the roster contrast, commenting on Rutgers' reliance on freshmen like Chris Nwuli, Harun Zrno, Lino Mark, and Kaden Powers, who played double-digit minutes. "You can't grow them if you can't keep them," Painter said, referencing how top recruits Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey left for the NBA after last season. Purdue's seniors—Trey Kaufman-Renn (15.5 points, 11 rebounds per game), Fletcher Loyer (15.6 points, 49.1% from three), and Smith (13.4 points, 8.9 assists)—provide continuity that Rutgers lacks, now 5-4 after losing four of their last five.
Purdue redshirt freshman Jack Benter missed the game due to illness, but the Boilermakers' depth held strong. They host No. 10 Iowa State on Saturday, while Rutgers faces No. 3 Michigan on the road.