Ohio State upsets No. 8 Purdue 82-74

Buckeyes hand Boilermakers their third loss in four games

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Ohio State men's basketball team picked up a crucial 82-74 victory over 8th-ranked Purdue on Sunday afternoon. The Buckeyes were led by a strong performance from sophomore guard John Mobley Jr., who hit five 3-pointers and finished with 21 points. Ohio State led for most of the game and was able to hold off a late Purdue comeback attempt.

Why it matters

This win is a major boost to Ohio State's NCAA Tournament hopes, as they desperately needed a high-quality victory on their resume. Purdue, on the other hand, has now lost three of their last four games, raising questions about their form heading into the final stretch of the regular season.

The details

Ohio State jumped out to an early 16-9 lead, but Purdue responded with a 7-0 run to tie the game at 16. The Buckeyes then went on an 11-2 run, capped by Mobley's third 3-pointer, to take a 30-24 lead into halftime. Ohio State extended their lead to as much as 14 in the second half, but Purdue cut the deficit to as little as 7 points late. However, the Buckeyes were able to hit their free throws down the stretch to seal the victory.

  • Ohio State led 36-31 at halftime, the first time they had a halftime lead since February 17 against Wisconsin.
  • Mobley hit his fourth 3-pointer of the game to put Ohio State up 45-34 with 17:59 left to play.
  • Ohio State extended their lead to as much as 14 points early in the second half.

The players

John Mobley Jr.

A sophomore guard for Ohio State who led the team with 21 points, including five 3-pointers.

Oscar Cluff

Purdue's 260-pound Australian center who was called for an offensive foul after a hard screen on Mobley.

Matt Painter

Purdue's head coach who was forced to call a timeout after Ohio State extended their lead to 11 points early in the second half.

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What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.