Purdue Boilermakers Advance Past Nebraska in Big Ten Tournament

Boilermakers defeat Cornhuskers 72-68 in Chicago to reach next round

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:51am

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The Purdue Boilermakers defeated the Nebraska Cornhuskers 72-68 in the Big Ten Tournament at the United Center in Chicago. Purdue, ranked 18th in the nation, used its size and physicality to dominate the glass and wear down the 11th-ranked Cornhuskers, who struggled to contain Purdue's big men inside. The win marks Purdue's second victory over Nebraska this season and gives the Boilermakers a key Quad 1 win as they look to advance deeper in the tournament.

Why it matters

This victory over a highly-ranked Nebraska team is a significant boost for Purdue's NCAA Tournament resume, as the Boilermakers look to secure a high seed. The win also continues Purdue's strong late-season run and shows the team's ability to win a physical, grind-it-out game against a tough conference opponent.

The details

Purdue's size and rebounding prowess were the difference, as the Boilermakers outrebounded Nebraska 42-29 and grabbed 15 offensive boards. Trey Kaufman-Renn led the way with 19 rebounds, while Oscar Cluff added 10 offensive rebounds. Purdue also limited its turnovers against Nebraska's stifling defense, a key factor in the win.

  • The game was played on Friday, March 13, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. ET.
  • Purdue and Nebraska met once during the regular season, with Purdue winning 80-77 in overtime in Lincoln on January 25, 2026.

The players

Trey Kaufman-Renn

A key frontcourt player for Purdue who dominated the glass, grabbing 19 rebounds in the win.

Oscar Cluff

Purdue's senior center who contributed 10 offensive rebounds, helping the Boilermakers control the paint.

Rienk Mast

Nebraska's skilled big man who stretches defenses with his perimeter shooting and driving ability.

Braden Smith

Purdue's sophomore point guard who dished out 16 assists in the team's previous tournament game, putting him close to the NCAA's all-time assist leader.

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What they’re saying

“We knew we had to dominate the glass and limit their transition opportunities to have a chance. Our guys really bought in and executed the game plan.”

— Matt Painter, Purdue Head Coach

“Purdue's size and physicality were just too much for us to handle today. We needed to be more disciplined on defense and take care of the ball better.”

— Fred Hoiberg, Nebraska Head Coach

What’s next

Purdue will advance to the semifinals of the Big Ten Tournament, where they will face the winner of the Michigan State-Illinois matchup on Saturday.

The takeaway

Purdue's ability to control the glass and limit turnovers against Nebraska's stifling defense proved to be the difference in this hard-fought Big Ten Tournament battle. The Boilermakers' physicality and discipline were key factors in securing the victory and keeping their NCAA Tournament aspirations on track.