Purdue Faces Akron in Unique Home Game During 3-Week Road Span

Purdue University, currently ranked No. 2, is set to face Akron in a noteworthy home game, a rare occurrence during a challenging three-week road span. This match, scheduled for November 12, 2023, marks Purdue’s first home game in over a week and represents a unique opportunity, as they haven’t met Akron since the 2000-01 season.

Purdue’s Competitive Landscape

The Boilermakers are navigating a demanding schedule, with only one home game over a stretch from November 8 to November 27. Out of their remaining 28 games, only eight are against teams ranked below 50 in the KenPom rankings. They aim to start the season 4-0 for the fifth consecutive time.

Home Game Streak and Performance Stats

• Purdue has an impressive record of 34 consecutive non-conference home victories, a streak dating back to November 9, 2019.
• The team ranks 19th nationally in turnover percentage, with an 11.0% rate, and 30th in assist rate at 65.9%.
• Purdue leads with a 2.73 assist-to-turnover ratio, showcasing remarkable efficiency.

In their previous game against Alabama, Purdue players outperformed Alabama’s strongest rebounder, demonstrating depth and skill. With players averaging significant scoring, Akron enters this matchup averaging 99.3 points per game, further intensifying the competition.

Player Highlights

• Braden Smith is recognized as a top contender for the KenPom Player of the Year and achieved a notable 29 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists in a game against a top-10 opponent.
• Fletcher Loyer began the season on a high, scoring 30 points in his opener.
• Smith and Loyer have set the school record for consecutive starts, reaching their 113th game together.

Purdue’s Historical Achievements

Purdue’s current winning streak in non-conference matchups reflects their dominance, having won 34 of the last 36 games when scoring 80 or more points. The team ranks third nationally in total victories since the 2021-22 season and has led the AP poll for 14 weeks, the highest in the nation.

Upcoming Prospects

The Boilermakers recently solidified their future by signing four players for the Class of 2026, contributing to a highly ranked recruiting class. Head Coach Matt Painter, who has amassed 474 wins, is on track to reach 500 victories, positioning him among the fastest coaches to achieve this milestone in NCAA history.

As Purdue prepares to host Akron, fans can expect a high-paced game filled with impressive talent and a sprinkle of history, highlighting the best of college basketball. This matchup is more than just a game; it’s a showcase of Purdue’s athletic legacy and a glimpse into the future.