Purdue Hosts Ohio State in High-Stakes Big Ten Showdown

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — The No. 12 Purdue Boilermakers (15-4, 7-1 Big Ten) will host the struggling Ohio State Buckeyes (10-8, 2-5 Big Ten) on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, at Mackey Arena. Purdue enters the game on a seven-game winning streak, while Ohio State looks to snap a three-game losing streak, all by narrow margins.

Purdue’s recent success has been fueled by standout performances from Trey Kaufman-Renn, who scored 23 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in a hard-fought win over Oregon, and Braden Smith, who added 15 points, 7 assists, and 4 steals. Despite shooting struggles from beyond the arc (5-of-25 in their last two games), the Boilermakers have relied on their defense and free-throw accuracy to secure victories.

Ohio State, meanwhile, has endured a string of heartbreaking losses, including a 77-76 overtime defeat to Indiana. The Buckeyes have played four consecutive games decided by a single possession, a program first. Their second-leading scorer and top rebounder, who missed the Indiana game with a wrist injury, is expected to return for Tuesday’s matchup.

“It’s been a tough stretch, but we’re focused on getting back on track,” said Ohio State head coach Jake Diebler. “Purdue is a great team, but we believe in our ability to compete.”

Purdue head coach Matt Painter emphasized the importance of home-court advantage. “Mackey Arena is a special place, and our fans give us a real edge,” he said. “We need to bring our best effort against a desperate Ohio State team.”

The game tips off at 7:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on Peacock. Purdue is favored by 10.5 points, with an over/under of 141.5 total points. According to ESPN‘s Basketball Power Index, Purdue has a 77.1% chance of winning.

Ohio State will look to freshman guard C.J. Cox, who scored 22 points against Indiana, to provide a spark. However, Purdue’s balanced attack, led by Kaufman-Renn and Smith, along with their dominant home record (9-0 this season), makes them the clear favorite.

The all-time series between the two teams favors Purdue, 93-88, including a 60-27 record at home. Ohio State’s last win at Mackey Arena came in February 2018.

Both teams have critical Big Ten matchups ahead. Purdue will host Michigan on Jan. 24, while Ohio State faces Iowa on Jan. 27.