Purdue's first-round performance in the NCAA Tournament under Matt Painter was nothing short of commanding, elevating their record to an impressive 13-3. From the moment Fletcher Loyer nailed a three-pointer to break a 2-2 tie, Purdue never looked back, asserting their dominance over Queens with authority.
The Boilermakers delivered an offensive clinic, shooting a remarkable 63% from the field and 58% from beyond the arc. Their 15 offensive rebounds and 24 assists highlighted a team firing on all cylinders, while the 12 turnovers mostly came after the outcome was well in hand. Even when Queens managed to land a punch before halftime, Purdue responded with a powerful start to the second half, quelling any hopes of a comeback.
Braden Smith's record-breaking night was a highlight, as he surpassed Bobby Hurley's long-standing NCAA assist record. It took five postseason games, but Smith's perseverance paid off, with his 1,077th assist delivered to Trey Kaufman-Renn. This milestone is a testament to his skill and leadership, though Jeremy Fears Jr. of Michigan State might have his sights set on it next.
The TKR-Smith duo has been a cornerstone for Purdue over the years, and they shone brightly in this game. Kaufman-Renn and Oscar Cluff combined for a formidable 34 points and 20 rebounds, showcasing their offensive prowess.
Smith also contributed significantly on the scoreboard, dropping 26 points, his highest since the Illinois game. Queens provided the perfect opportunity for him to adopt a scoring-first mentality.
CJ Cox's return to form was a welcome sight. After a quiet stretch, he seems to be finding his rhythm again, adding depth to Purdue's lineup.
The Boilermakers have flipped a switch since the postseason began, consistently outplaying their opponents across five games. Even against a strong Michigan team, Purdue maintained control, demonstrating their potential.
Liam Murphy's contribution was a pleasant surprise, marking his first points since the Maryland game and his first three-pointer since early December.
One minor disappointment was the lack of playing time for the walk-ons, as it would have been a memorable NCAA Tournament experience for them to get on the court.
Looking ahead, the competition will undoubtedly intensify in the second round. However, if Purdue continues to play with this level of focus and execution, they are poised to make a deep run. This team is finally living up to the high expectations set for them this season.