Purdue's CJ Cox Questionable After Knee Injury in Miami Game

Boilermakers star guard exits with knee issue in Round of 32 matchup.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 5:56pm

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Purdue basketball guard CJ Cox suffered a knee injury in the second half of their NCAA Tournament game against Miami on Sunday. Cox, who had scored 11 points on efficient shooting, is now questionable to return to the contest. If Purdue advances, his availability for the Sweet 16 will be a key question.

Why it matters

CJ Cox is a key player for Purdue, averaging 8.4 points per game this season. His injury could significantly impact the Boilermakers' chances of advancing deeper in the NCAA Tournament, where they were set to face the winner of Texas and Gonzaga in the Sweet 16.

The details

Cox exited the game in the second half after suffering the knee injury. The team later reported he was 'questionable to return' and was doing some running in the locker room and tunnel, per reports. Prior to the injury, Cox had scored 11 points on 4-of-5 shooting, including 3-of-4 from 3-point range.

  • The injury occurred in the second half of Purdue's Round of 32 game against Miami on Sunday, March 22, 2026.

The players

CJ Cox

A starting guard for the Purdue Boilermakers basketball team who suffered a knee injury during their NCAA Tournament game against Miami.

Purdue Boilermakers

The men's basketball team from Purdue University that was competing in the 2026 NCAA Tournament.

Miami Hurricanes

The men's basketball team from the University of Miami that was playing against Purdue in the NCAA Tournament Round of 32 game.

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What they’re saying

“'CJ Cox is 'questionable to return.' Says he's doing some running back in the locker room/tunnel,'”

— Jon Rothstein, Reporter

What’s next

If Purdue is able to advance past Miami, the status of CJ Cox's knee injury will be a key question heading into their Sweet 16 matchup against either Texas or Gonzaga.

The takeaway

Purdue's NCAA Tournament hopes could hinge on the health of star guard CJ Cox, who suffered a concerning knee injury in the second half of their Round of 32 game against Miami. His availability for the Sweet 16 will be crucial if the Boilermakers want to continue their tournament run.