Purdue Boilermakers Triumph in Overtime
In a thrilling overtime showdown, the No. 13 Purdue Boilermakers triumphed 80-77 over No. 7 Nebraska on Tuesday night in Lincoln, marking an impressive comeback from a daunting 22-point deficit earlier in the game. Oscar Cluff’s decisive layup with just 3.9 seconds remaining gave Purdue the edge, while Gicarri Harris sealed the victory with two crucial free throws.
Game Highlights
The victory improved Purdue’s record to 20-4, including 10-3 in the Big Ten, and was their second victory against a top-10 opponent this season. They face a challenging series of games ahead, with three ranked teams lined up over the next 16 days. Nebraska, despite their promising 20-0 start, has now suffered three losses in four games, all against ranked teams, bringing their record to 21-3 and also 10-3 within the conference.
Player Performances
Fletcher Loyer led the Boilermakers with 18 points, while Trey Kaufman-Renn had a standout night with a career-high of 19 rebounds. Braden Smith contributed significantly with 13 points, 10 assists, and 8 rebounds. On the other side, the Huskers were led by Rienk Mast, who scored 18 points, and Jamarques Lawrence, who added 16 points. Pryce Sandfort made an impact with all 15 points coming in the second half.
Thrilling Conclusion
With Nebraska behind for most of the contest, Sandfort’s layup at 1:31 in overtime gave them their first lead at 77-75. Cluff had a chance to tie the game but made only one of two free throws after being fouled while grabbing an offensive rebound. His subsequent putback swung the lead back to Purdue, just ahead of the buzzer. The thrilling conclusion saw Lawrence mishandle an inbound pass, allowing Harris to sink the final free throws.
Next Games
Nebraska, known for their resilience, had previously erased 16-point deficits in wins, managing to force overtime with Mast’s putback with just 12.8 seconds remaining in regulation. Though he could not capitalize on the go-ahead free throw opportunity, Purdue’s lead held firm as Smith’s last-second shot missed.
Next, Purdue is set to face Iowa on Saturday, while Nebraska will host Northwestern on the same day.
Stay updated with the AP Top 25 and sign up for alerts on college basketball through the AP mobile app.
