Purdue basketball has firmly established itself as one of the premier programs in college basketball over the past decade. The 2023-24 season marked the ninth consecutive year the Boilermakers competed in the NCAA Tournament. While Purdue’s journey ended just short of a national title last season, they were defeated by UConn in the championship game, 75-60. This victory gave the Huskies their second consecutive national championship, but the Boilermakers’ performance once again proved they were among the elite teams in the country.

Despite their sustained success, Purdue is still searching for its first-ever NCAA championship. Head coach Matt Painter has consistently assembled exceptional teams, getting closer to that elusive title year after year. With another deep and talented roster this season, Purdue looks poised for another March Madness run. This could very well be the year the Boilermakers finally capture the national title they’ve been chasing for so long.

On Friday night, Purdue faced off against rival Indiana in what was expected to be another intense chapter of their historic rivalry. The Hoosiers, struggling in the season, gave it their all but ultimately fell short. Purdue’s ability to hit the big shots when it mattered most secured the win and handed them a crucial victory in front of their home crowd.

The win also marked a significant milestone for Purdue basketball. Heading into the game, both Purdue and Indiana were tied with 1,945 wins, ranking among the top programs in NCAA history. With their victory, Purdue moved ahead with 1,946 wins, surpassing Indiana for 10th all time in wins. They now trail Saint John’s, who holds 1,960 wins.

The Boilermakers will meet the Hoosiers again at Assembly Hall in late February. Indiana will be looking for a critical Quad 1 win to improve their tournament chances, while Purdue will continue its quest for that first national championship.