Purdue Boilermakers Prepare for Rivalry Matchup with Indiana

Coach Matt Painter and players discuss the upcoming game against the Hoosiers

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Purdue's men's basketball team is gearing up to face their in-state rival Indiana Hoosiers on Friday night at Mackey Arena. Head coach Matt Painter and several Boilermaker players met with the media to preview the matchup, discuss their recent loss to Michigan, and reflect on the significance of the rivalry game for the team's seniors.

Why it matters

The Purdue-Indiana rivalry is one of the most storied in college basketball, with the two programs battling for state supremacy each season. This could be the last time Purdue's seniors compete against Indiana, adding extra meaning to the game as they look to secure a victory in their final regular season meeting.

The details

In the media session, coach Matt Painter and players Trey Kaufman-Renn and Braden Smith discussed their preparations for the Indiana game, the team's recent loss to Michigan, and the significance of the rivalry matchup. The Boilermakers are looking to bounce back from the Michigan defeat and secure a win over their in-state foes to keep their Big Ten title hopes alive.

  • The Purdue Boilermakers will face the Indiana Hoosiers on Friday, February 24, 2026.
  • Purdue coach Matt Painter and players met with the media on Thursday, February 23, 2026 to preview the upcoming game.

The players

Matt Painter

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

Trey Kaufman-Renn

A forward on the Purdue Boilermakers men's basketball team.

Braden Smith

A guard on the Purdue Boilermakers men's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The Purdue-Indiana rivalry is a highly anticipated annual matchup that holds significant meaning for both programs and their fans. As Purdue's seniors prepare for their final regular season game against the Hoosiers, the team is focused on securing a victory to keep their Big Ten title hopes alive and cement their legacy in the storied rivalry.