The excitement is building as the #17 ranked Purdue Boilermakers prepare to face the Washington Huskies in Seattle on January 15th. This game marks a special occasion as it’s the first time Purdue has played at the historic Alaska Airlines Arena since 1967! With the Boilermakers riding high on a five-game winning streak and boasting impressive stats, fans are eager to see if they can continue this momentum against a tough opponent.
Purdue’s Winning Streak
Purdue’s recent games have shown just how powerful this team can be, winning their last five matches by margins of over 18 points each time! That’s quite a feat and a testament to their strong teamwork and strategy on the court. The team’s ability to defend well is also noteworthy, as their opponents’ starting five have been averaging only 35.8 points per game in the last four games. This indicates that Purdue isn’t just scoring well; they are also making it tough for their opponents to get shots off.
Alaska Airlines Arena: A Historic Return
Returning to Alaska Airlines Arena feels historic for both players and fans. The last time the Boilermakers played here was back when the arena had a different name and probably a lot fewer fans! This trip is not just about another game; it’s about rekindling ties to the past while showcasing how much Purdue basketball has grown since then.
Who to Watch: Key Players
- Braden Smith: Leading the team, he averages 15.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and an impressive 9.2 assists per game.
- Trey Kaufman-Renn: This player has been on fire, averaging 17.5 points and 6.2 rebounds in the last few games.
- Fletcher Loyer: He’s shooting 48.6% from three-point range, making him a dangerous player from beyond the arc!
An Eye on the Opponent: Washington Huskies
Washington’s team is known for its defensive skills, especially against the three-point shot. This could be crucial in the matchup against Purdue, who has three strong shooters that they will need to shut down. But Washington is facing a challenge as they’ve already played three top-14 teams in a row. They will be looking for a strong performance from their inside game, led by Great Osobor, to counter Purdue’s fast breaks and shooting prowess.
Purdue’s Impressive Stats
Here are some amazing stats for Purdue as they gear up for this big game:
| Stat Category | Current Stat |
|---|---|
| Overall Record | 13-4 |
| Points per Game | 78.4 |
| Points Allowed per Game | 68.5 |
| Turnovers in Last 5 Games | 40 |
How to Watch
For fans eager to catch all the action, the game tips off at 6:30 PM PT on the Big Ten Network. If you can’t get to a television, don’t worry! You can stream the game on the Huskies Gameday App or tune in to Sports Radio KJR for the live broadcast. Prepare yourself for an evening filled with thrilling basketball action!
Looking Ahead
This exciting game not only represents a crucial matchup in this season’s schedule but also illustrates how far the Purdue basketball program has come. As they continue to push for success in the Big Ten, this clash with Washington will surely be one to remember. Will the Boilermakers ride their winning streak to victory in Seattle? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: Purdue basketball is back on the map!