The Purdue Boilermakers returned to the win column Tuesday night against Michigan State, 75-65, a team that’s uncharacteristically struggling this season.
But don’t expect the Boilermakers (14-8, 9-6 in the Big Ten) to sympathize with the plight of the Spartans (10-9, 4-9) who appear destined for their worst finish in the Big Ten since Rutgers joined the conference in 2014-15. Purdue with a 9-11 record in the Big Ten last year had similar struggles. Prior to that, both the Boilers and the Spartans have enjoyed great success in the conference in the 14-team era with Rutgers.
The Boilermakers were in control for all except around two minutes of the game. A Zach Edey hook shot with 12:26 left in the game gave the Boilers the lead for good, 43-42.
Trevion Williams carried Purdue with 28 points, six rebounds and three assists. Williams proved to be a nemesis to the Spartans in their two regular-season games. His last-second jumper provided a dramatic win in January over the Spartans.
“I don’t feel pressure anymore,” said Williams following the game, “I know the team relies on me, and the best thing that I can do is just to be simple and get to my move, and it works out for me.”
Junior guard Eric Hunter Jr. contributed with 15 points while freshman Jaden Ivey chipped in with 11, nine in the second half.
Purdue dominated inside with 48 points in the paint.
With the win, Purdue is knotted up with No. 21 Wisconsin, fifth in the Big Ten, with four games to play. Purdue will face off against last-place Nebraska Saturday in Lincoln.
