Purdue Boilermakers Survive in Overtime Against Northwestern with Record-Breaking Performance

The No. 2 Purdue Boilermakers delivered an exhilarating performance against the Northwestern Wildcats, clinching a 105-96 overtime victory. The sophomore point guard, Braden Smith, made his mark with an impressive 16 assists, landing him the second spot in the program’s history for most assists in a single game.

Northwestern came out strong in the first half, draining 8 out of 13 shots from beyond the arc. This hot start allowed the Wildcats to briefly take a 25-21 lead. However, the Boilermakers responded with a remarkable 17-2 run, scoring six consecutive field goals and finishing the first half with a 47-39 lead.

The lead quickly diminished in the second half due to Purdue’s struggles at the free throw line, making only 29 of their 46 attempts. Both teams exchanged blows throughout the half, with Northwestern’s Boo Buie having an opportunity to win the game in regulation but missing the potential game-winning shot. Despite this, Purdue managed to avenge their earlier overtime loss against Northwestern this season.

The game’s final assist came from Braden Smith, who found Fletcher Loyer beyond the 3-point line. Loyer capitalized on the opportunity and scored the crucial basket with 38.3 seconds remaining in overtime, securing the Boilermakers’ 96-90 lead. Although Northwestern fought back, they failed to convert a late shot, leading to an intense exchange between Wildcats coach Chris Collins and the officials. Purdue’s Mason Gillis sealed the victory by sinking three technical foul shots.

Purdue’s 7-foot-4 center, Zach Edey, had a challenging first half but made significant contributions in overtime. Despite struggling from the free throw line throughout the game, Edey managed to score 30 points and secure 15 rebounds, playing exceptionally for a total of 41 minutes and 30 seconds.

Lance Jones had a strong first half, aiding Purdue in building a comfortable lead. He scored 26 points overall, including two crucial 3-pointers during the second half that tied the game at 66 and put Purdue ahead at 69-68.

Northwestern’s Ty Berry played a key role in the team’s impressive performance, making 6 of 9 shots from beyond the arc and contributing 25 points. Additionally, Boo Buie continued to trouble Purdue, adding 25 points and hitting 7 of 11 3-pointers.

This exceptional victory for the Boilermakers marks their sixth consecutive win and serves as a redemption for their earlier loss against Northwestern. With their extraordinary performances, Braden Smith, Zach Edey, Lance Jones, Ty Berry, and Boo Buie have undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the game.

Written by Sam King, sports journalist for the Journal & Courier.