Purdue Advances to Sweet 16 in March Madness

Former Boilermaker star awaits next round after team's victory over Miami

Mar. 22, 2026 at 9:21pm

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The Purdue Boilermakers defeated the Miami Hurricanes 79-69 in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, advancing to the Sweet 16. The win comes just a year after the team narrowly missed reaching the Elite Eight, with a player hitting a shot that "almost took us to the Elite Eight" according to head coach Matt Painter.

Why it matters

Purdue's continued success in the NCAA Tournament is significant for the school's basketball program, which has a loyal fan base and history of producing talented players. The team's run also keeps interest high in the thrilling March Madness event.

The details

In the win over Miami, the Boilermakers used a balanced scoring attack and strong defense to overcome the Hurricanes. Purdue head coach Matt Painter praised the team's effort, noting the similarity between this year's game-winning shot and a clutch play from last year's tournament that nearly sent the team to the Elite Eight.

  • Purdue defeated Miami 79-69 on March 22, 2026.

The players

Matt Painter

The head coach of the Purdue Boilermakers men's basketball team.

Purdue Boilermakers

The NCAA Division I men's basketball team representing Purdue University.

Miami Hurricanes

The NCAA Division I men's basketball team representing the University of Miami.

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What they’re saying

“Almost the same exact shot he hit against Houston last year that almost took us to the Elite Eight”

— Matt Painter, Head Coach, Purdue Boilermakers

What’s next

Purdue will face the winner of the game between UCLA and Gonzaga in the Sweet 16 round of the NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

Purdue's continued success in the NCAA Tournament demonstrates the program's ability to consistently compete at a high level and produce talented teams year after year, keeping the school's basketball tradition alive.