Purdue Struggles with Physical Play and Toughness in Loss to A&M

INDIANAPOLIS — Texas A&M showcased their physical dominance, leading to a 70-66 victory over Purdue at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The Aggies, recognized as the top offensive rebounding team in the nation, secured 14 offensive rebounds, converting them into nine second-chance points.

The Boilermakers struggled to contain Texas A&M's defensive strategy, particularly when it came to Trey Kaufman-Renn. He managed only 11 points on 3-of-9 shooting—his lowest scoring performance this season. Purdue head coach Matt Painter acknowledged Texas A&M's effective game plan and physicality.

“I thought they did a good job of knocking him out, and he’s got to do a better job of being a receiver and our guys have to do a better job of seeing him when he’s open,” Painter said.

“They just threw a lot of guys at me but we got to figure out how to deal with that,” Kaufman-Renn said.

Despite Kaufman-Renn's challenges, Painter emphasized the need for more efficient play and quality shot selection. Purdue faced a significant scoring drought in the second half lasting over seven minutes, allowing Texas A&M to build a commanding 12-point lead.

Turnovers also plagued the Boilermakers; they committed 16 turnovers which led to 22 points for Texas A&M. Additionally, Purdue shot just 46% from the field and 34% from three-point range.

“We just have to do a better job of taking care of the basketball, but I love their toughness,” Painter remarked. “I love how hard they play.”

This defeat marked Purdue’s third loss this season and their second in non-conference play. However, Coach Painter believes that these tough matchups are vital for preparing his team for the upcoming challenges in the season.

“Nobody feels good about it, but we’re definitely a better team for playing it because if you can handle that physicality and realize that’s always your measuring stick right?” Painter explained. “So when you play people, that’s what it looks like. And we’ve faced a lot of people like that so far.”

Purdue has one more high-profile non-conference game ahead against an SEC opponent as they prepare to face Auburn in Birmingham, Alabama on Saturday, December 21.