Michigan Wolverines Rally to Defeat Purdue Boilermakers in Big Ten Showdown

2025-03-01

The No. 7 Purdue Boilermakers faced the No. 20 Michigan Wolverines in a thrilling Big Ten matchup on Tuesday night at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan. In a game that had significant implications for the conference standings, Michigan rallied late to secure a hard-fought victory, moving into first place in the Big Ten.

Purdue entered the game with a four-game win streak and a 19-5 overall record (11-2 in the Big Ten), while Michigan, also on a four-game win streak, held an 18-5 record (10-2 in the Big Ten). The Boilermakers had dominated their previous meeting on January 24, winning 91-64, but this rematch proved to be a much tighter contest.

Michigan trailed by 10 points in the second half but mounted a comeback, taking its first lead with 5:33 remaining. The game remained close down the stretch, with both teams exchanging leads. Key plays from Michigan’s Roddy Gayle Jr., who contributed 14 points and seven rebounds off the bench, and Nimari Burnett, who hit crucial three-pointers, helped the Wolverines regain control. Rubin Jones’ offensive rebound and dunk with 39 seconds left extended Michigan’s lead to six, sealing the victory. Purdue’s Braden Smith missed a buzzer-beating three-pointer, and Michigan held on for the win.

Purdue’s Smith led all scorers with 24 points, while Trey Kaufman-Renn added 22. However, Michigan’s balanced scoring, including 15 points and nine rebounds from Danny Wolf, proved decisive. The Wolverines outscored Purdue 18-6 at the free-throw line and held a 21-0 advantage in bench points.

With the win, Michigan improved to 12-0 at home and moved into sole possession of first place in the Big Ten. Purdue, meanwhile, dropped to 11-3 in conference play. Both teams remain in contention for the conference title, with critical matchups ahead as the season progresses.