Full Breakdown
Iowa State Achieves Historic Upset Over Purdue
12/6/2025, 10:12:33 PM
Dominant Performance by Iowa State
In a significant upset, No. 10 Iowa State defeated No. 1 Purdue with a commanding score of 81-58 on Saturday. Milan Momcilovic led the Cyclones with 20 points, while Killyan Toure and Joshua Jefferson contributed 13 and 11 points, respectively. The Cyclones demonstrated exceptional shooting, making 11 three-pointers and achieving a shooting percentage of 59% in the second half. This victory marks the largest nonconference home loss for a No. 1 team in AP poll history and ties for the largest home loss ever by a top-ranked team.
Key Moments and Statistics
Iowa State entered halftime with a narrow lead of 35-31. However, they quickly extended their advantage with an 11-0 run early in the second half, pushing the score to 48-33. Tamin Lipsey, Momcilovic, and Toure each sank three consecutive three-pointers during this stretch. The Cyclones maintained their momentum, ultimately leading by as many as 27 points. Purdue struggled offensively, shooting only 41% overall and committing 15 turnovers, three more than Iowa State. The Boilermakers also had a poor performance from the free-throw line, converting just 6 of 14 attempts.
Purdue's Struggles
Purdue's top scorers faced challenges throughout the game. Fletcher Loyer and Trey Kaufman-Renn combined for only 3 points in the first half, with Kaufman-Renn missing his first six shots before scoring late in the half. Braden Smith led Purdue with 11 points, while Oscar Cluff and Daniel Jacobsen each added 10 points. The loss ended Purdue's streak of 36 consecutive nonconference home victories and marked their worst home defeat since January 30, 2013.
Official Statements & Responses
Following the game, Iowa State head coach T.J. Otzelberger praised his team's performance, stating, "We played our absolute best... we were fortunate enough to do that." In contrast, Purdue coach Matt Painter expressed disappointment, describing the loss as an "avalanche" and acknowledging that Iowa State's performance significantly impacted his team's morale. Braden Smith reflected on the defeat, noting, "Obviously this sucks right now, but it will probably be a good thing showing us how much better we have to get."
What's Next
Looking ahead, Iowa State will host Iowa on Thursday night, while Purdue is set to welcome Minnesota to West Lafayette on Wednesday night. Both teams will aim to rebound from this pivotal matchup as the season progresses.
