Purdue Looks to Avenge Earlier Loss to Indiana

Fourth-ranked Boilermakers host 11th-ranked Hoosiers in Big Ten rivalry matchup

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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In what's likely to be Purdue's seniors' last meeting with their rival, the fourth-ranked Boilermakers host the 11th-ranked Indiana Hoosiers on Friday night, looking to even the season series after a disappointing loss in Bloomington a few weeks ago.

Why it matters

This Big Ten rivalry matchup between two highly ranked teams has major implications for both teams' NCAA Tournament hopes and conference standings. Purdue is looking to bounce back at home after losing several marquee games there this season, while Indiana is trying to solidify its place in the tournament in Year 1 under new head coach Darian DeVries.

The details

Purdue has struggled defensively at home this season, with opponents shooting a combined 50 percent from three-point range in their losses to Iowa State, Illinois, and Michigan. Meanwhile, Indiana has been led by senior guard Lamar Wilkerson, who is on pace to lead the Big Ten in scoring. The Hoosiers also have a size advantage inside that hurt Purdue in the first matchup.

  • Purdue and Indiana will meet on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 8 p.m. ET.
  • The teams previously faced off in Bloomington a few weeks ago, with Indiana winning that contest.

The players

Lamar Wilkerson

A senior guard for Indiana who is on pace to lead the Big Ten in scoring this season, averaging 24.2 points per game in conference play.

Trey Kaufman-Renn

A Purdue forward who had a season-high 27 points in the Boilermakers' previous loss to Michigan, as Purdue tried to rally from behind.

Darian DeVries

In his first year as Indiana's head coach, DeVries is looking to lead the Hoosiers to the NCAA Tournament.

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What’s next

The winner of this game will take a step closer to securing an NCAA Tournament berth, while the loser will have work to do down the stretch. Purdue will also be looking to avenge its earlier loss to Indiana and improve its home record against marquee opponents.

The takeaway

This Big Ten rivalry matchup between two top-15 teams is a must-watch game, with both Purdue and Indiana having a lot on the line. The Boilermakers are looking to bounce back at home and secure a regular season split with their in-state rival, while the Hoosiers are trying to solidify their tournament resume in Year 1 under a new head coach.