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West Today
By the People, for the People
Purdue Outlasts Miami, Advances to Sweet 16
Boilermakers overcome turnover-prone performance to defeat Hurricanes and set up matchup with Texas
Mar. 22, 2026 at 6:50pm
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The #2 seed Purdue Boilermakers defeated the 7-seed Miami Hurricanes 79-69 in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament to advance to the Sweet 16. Despite an uncharacteristic game from star guard Braden Smith, who had 8 assists but also 8 turnovers, Purdue was able to grind out the victory. Backcourt mate Fletcher Loyer stepped up with 24 points, including 4-for-4 shooting from three-point range, to lead the Boilermakers. Purdue will now face the unexpected 11-seed Texas Longhorns in the West regional semifinals.
Why it matters
Purdue's victory keeps them alive in the NCAA Tournament as they look to make a deep run and potentially win their first national championship. The Boilermakers have been one of the top teams in the country all season, and this win over a tough Miami squad shows their resilience and ability to win close games even when their star player struggles. The matchup with Texas in the Sweet 16 will be a tough test, but Purdue has proven it can overcome adversity.
The details
Purdue led for most of the game, but Miami kept it close throughout. The Boilermakers were able to pull away late by hitting their free throws, with Loyer going a perfect 8-for-8 from the line. Braden Smith, Purdue's leading scorer and facilitator, had an uncharacteristically sloppy game with 8 turnovers, but his teammates stepped up to pick up the slack. The Boilermakers' defense also played a key role, limiting Miami's scoring opportunities and forcing 13 turnovers.
- The game was played on March 22, 2026.
- Purdue's next game will be against Texas in the Sweet 16 on March 28, 2026.
The players
Braden Smith
Purdue's starting point guard and leading scorer, who had 8 assists but also 8 turnovers in the win over Miami.
Fletcher Loyer
Purdue's backcourt mate of Smith, who stepped up with 24 points, including 4-for-4 shooting from three-point range, to lead the Boilermakers to victory.
Texas Longhorns
The unexpected 11-seed that Purdue will face in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament.
What they’re saying
“Braden Smith's got to be better for them to do that.”
— Dalen Cuff, Yahoo Sports Contributor
What’s next
Purdue will face the 11-seed Texas Longhorns in the Sweet 16 on March 28, 2026. The winner will advance to the Elite 8 of the NCAA Tournament.
The takeaway
Purdue's gritty win over Miami shows the Boilermakers' ability to overcome adversity and find ways to win, even when their star player struggles. With a matchup against the surprising Texas Longhorns in the Sweet 16, Purdue will need to play a more complete game to advance further in the NCAA Tournament and potentially capture their first national championship.
