Game Recap
The #2 Purdue Boilermakers and #9 Illinois Fighting Illini clashed in a high-stakes Big Ten battle on March 7, 2025, with both teams aiming for conference tournament positioning ahead of March Madness. Purdue, powered by Zach Edey’s dominance inside, secured a 76-69 victory, proving why they remain one of the top teams in the nation.
The game started with Illinois pushing the tempo, as Terrence Shannon Jr. scored 8 quick points, giving the Fighting Illini a 20-12 lead midway through the first half. However, Purdue responded with a 10-2 run, as Braden Smith knocked down two three-pointers, helping the Boilermakers take a 38-36 lead at halftime.
In the second half, Purdue’s defense tightened, forcing Illinois into multiple turnovers. Zach Edey took over the paint, scoring 12 of his 24 points in the final 10 minutes, while Lance Jones and Fletcher Loyer hit key shots down the stretch to keep Illinois from mounting a comeback.
Key Performances
Purdue Boilermakers:
- Zach Edey: 24 points, 11 rebounds, 3 blocks.
- Braden Smith: 14 points, 7 assists.
- Fletcher Loyer: 12 points, 3 three-pointers.
Illinois Fighting Illini:
- Terrence Shannon Jr.: 21 points, 5 rebounds.
- Coleman Hawkins: 14 points, 6 rebounds.
- Marcus Domask: 11 points, 4 assists.
Statistical Highlights
- Field Goal Percentage:
- Purdue: 48.7%
- Illinois: 42.3%
- Three-Point Shooting:
- Purdue: 39.1% (9/23)
- Illinois: 36.4% (8/22)
- Turnovers:
- Purdue: 10
- Illinois: 13
Takeaways
- Zach Edey proved unstoppable once again, controlling the paint and leading Purdue’s second-half surge.
- Illinois struggled with turnovers, allowing Purdue to capitalize in transition.
- Purdue’s balanced attack makes them a serious title contender, as multiple players stepped up when needed.
Call-to-Action (CTA):
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