The last few seasons Purdue and Marquette have played some pretty memorable games thanks to the Gavitt Games, a couple home-and-homes, and the Maui Invitational. The Golden Eagles have been a stern test
in each of those seasons, so beating them by 20 points (and that being the closest margin for a large portion of the second half) seems strange. They are now 5-6 on the season and not quite the quality win they normally could be, but it is still a solid victory.
I think the story of the last two games has been Purdue’s defense. They have dominated the glass and in the bost, but the defense limited both Minnesota and Marquette to about one shot per possession, and it was often a bad one. The Purdue offense continues to be one that can drop a 10-0 killshot seemingly at will.
Here are some more thoughts.
- The Braden Smith record watch marches on, as he had 10 today to stay head of pace. He is currently averaging 9.18 assists per game, and as long as he maintains that average and Purdue plays at least four postseason games between the NCAA and Big Ten Tournaments he will get the record.
- How about Oscar Cluff today? Matt Painter’s strategic use of the portal to get the pieces he needed continues to be flawless. Two years ago it was Lance Jones. This year it is Cluff, who with Daniel Jacobsen, basically can act as a new Zach Edey. Today in 39 combined minutes they had 26 points, 13 rebounds, two assists, and four blocks. That’s pretty damn close to Edey’s numbers.
- Not the best shooting from three, but the dominance in the paint made up for it. This team is so, so dangerous because it can beat you in a number of ways. That’s why I can look away from the Iowa State loss. Purdue’s didn’t shoot well and it did not play well inside. The offense was a mess and when you can’t hit open threes that’s not on the opposing defense. If Purdue can still win by 20 over a decent team while shooting 30% from three, watch out.
- Not really much else to say. This was a very business-like win.
Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer, Oscar Cluff
Matt Painter
