Indiana Men's Basketball Secures Signature Win Against Purdue

On January 27, 2026, the Indiana Hoosiers men's basketball team achieved a significant victory by defeating the No. 12 Purdue Boilermakers 72-67 at Assembly Hall. This win marked the first major triumph for head coach Darian DeVries in his inaugural season. The game showcased a collective team effort, with contributions from all eight players who participated. Lamar Wilkerson led the Hoosiers with 19 points, while Nick Dorn added 18 points, and Conor Enright played a crucial role by scoring five of his eight points in the final 71 seconds.

To beat Purdue, Indiana basketball brought 'fight in a lot of different ways'Indiana holds off late charge to get past No. 12 Purdue, 72-67Indiana 72, Purdue 67: Avalanched in Bloomington

The Hoosiers initially fell behind but rallied with a 21-6 run to close the first half, taking a 40-29 lead into halftime. Indiana's defense effectively contained Purdue's offense, limiting their scoring opportunities and forcing turnovers. Purdue, which had started the season strong with a 17-1 record, struggled defensively, allowing Indiana to capitalize on their shooting, particularly from beyond the arc.

Indiana holds off late charge to get past No. 12 Purdue, 72-67

Purdue's strategy involved moving Trey Kaufman-Renn to the center position and utilizing a pick-and-roll with Braden Smith to cut into Indiana's lead during the second half. Despite these adjustments, Indiana maintained composure and responded effectively to Purdue's scoring runs. Enright's timely three-pointer and free throws in the closing moments helped secure the win for the Hoosiers.

Indiana holds off late charge to get past No. 12 Purdue, 72-67Indiana 72, Purdue 67: Avalanched in BloomingtonTo beat Purdue, Indiana basketball brought 'fight in a lot of different ways'

Coach DeVries emphasized the importance of team preparedness, noting that players like Jasai Miles and Trent Sisley, despite limited playing time, were ready to contribute when called upon. This mentality was pivotal for Indiana as they aim for a postseason berth.

To beat Purdue, Indiana basketball brought 'fight in a lot of different ways'

Darian DeVries remarked on the team's collective effort, stating, "From a team standpoint, I just thought collectively there were a lot of guys that brought fight in a lot of different ways." He praised the contributions from bench players, highlighting their readiness and work ethic despite not always receiving significant minutes.

To beat Purdue, Indiana basketball brought 'fight in a lot of different ways'

Purdue's performance drew criticism, particularly regarding their defensive lapses and inability to match Indiana's intensity. Coach Matt Painter's team faced challenges in rebounding and turnovers, which were crucial in their third consecutive loss. The Boilermakers' struggles were evident as they failed to replicate their earlier season success.

Indiana holds off late charge to get past No. 12 Purdue, 72-67

Following this defeat, Purdue will face the Maryland Terrapins, while Indiana prepares for a challenging matchup against the UCLA Bruins. Both teams will look to regroup and adjust their strategies as the season progresses.

Indiana holds off late charge to get past No. 12 Purdue, 72-67

• “From a team standpoint, I just thought collectively there were a lot of guys that brought fight in a lot of different ways,” — Darian DeVries, Head Coach, Indiana Hoosiers

To beat Purdue, Indiana basketball brought 'fight in a lot of different ways'

• “We battled to the end of the play, finished plays.” — Nick Dorn, Player, Indiana Hoosiers

To beat Purdue, Indiana basketball brought 'fight in a lot of different ways'

• “It would've been really easy for his number to be called and him not be ready because he hadn't been putting in the work," Darian DeVries said.” — Darian DeVries on Jasai Miles

To beat Purdue, Indiana basketball brought 'fight in a lot of different ways'

This victory not only boosts Indiana's confidence but also serves as a pivotal moment in DeVries' coaching tenure, setting the stage for future challenges in the Big Ten Conference.

To beat Purdue, Indiana basketball brought 'fight in a lot of different ways'