Braden Smith flirted with a triple-double in No. 11 Purdue’s impressive 91-64 victory over No. 21 Michigan on Friday night. He delivered a standout performance, scoring 24 points, providing 10 assists, grabbing seven rebounds, and securing four steals.
With a shooting accuracy of 10 for 17 from the field and only one turnover in 37 minutes, Smith came close to joining the elite ranks of Purdue players who have achieved a triple-double. The last to do so was Joe Barry Carroll, who recorded 16 points, 16 rebounds, and 11 blocks against Arizona in December 1977.
Fletcher Loyer contributed significantly with 18 points, while Trey Kaufman-Renn added 15, helping the Boilermakers (16-5, 8-2 Big Ten) bounce back from their first home loss of the season against Ohio State. This victory marked a jubilant celebration in the 500th Big Ten game held at Mackey Arena.
On the other side, Vladislav Goldin led Michigan (14-5, 6-2) with 14 points in what was their second consecutive defeat. Tre Donaldson, Nimari Burnett, and Roddy Gayle Jr. each contributed 11 points.
Smith’s determination was evident as he ensured the game stayed out of reach for Michigan from the start. Purdue set the pace with a swift 13-2 run, quickly extending their lead to 36-13 midway through the first half. They maintained a commanding lead, finishing the half with their largest advantage of the season at 51-26.
Takeaways
Michigan: Coach Dusty May’s squad has shown promise this season, but they were unprepared for the intensity of Purdue. The Wolverines struggled early, committing five turnovers in the first three and a half minutes.
Purdue: The Boilermakers entered the game with a chip on their shoulder after the loss to the Buckeyes, demonstrating dominance from the opening tip to the final buzzer.
Key moment
Purdue’s aggressive defense set the tone early, with Smith executing a steal on the opening possession, followed by C.J. Cox forcing a jump ball and another turnover during Michigan’s second possession.
Key stat
Michigan struggled significantly, recording 22 turnovers and shooting just 6 of 29 from three-point range.
Up next
Michigan will host Penn State on Monday night, while Purdue prepares to face Indiana on Friday night.
