GoldandBlack.com Purdue Basketball Game Preview: Texas in the NCAA Tournament's Sweet 16
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Key Points:
- Purdue will face Texas in the Sweet 16 on March 26, with the winner advancing to play Arizona or Arkansas in the Elite Eight; the game will be held at San Jose’s SAP Center and broadcast on CBS.
- Purdue’s starting guard CJ Cox is questionable due to a hyperextended knee but has been a strong shooter, contributing to Purdue’s top-ranked KenPom offensive efficiency and near-record season shooting percentages.
- Texas has gained momentum with three consecutive NCAA Tournament wins, led by versatile forward Dailyn Swain and center Matas Vokietaitis, though senior guard Jordan Hope is questionable with an ankle injury.
- Texas boasts a strong offense ranked 15th nationally but has struggled defensively, which Purdue may exploit by limiting Swain’s lane access and capitalizing on other scoring opportunities.
- Purdue is predicted to win 80-72, with key factors including managing Texas’ physical forwards and leveraging Fletcher Loyer’s scoring threat despite expected defensive focus on him.
