Purdue Dominates Marquette as Braden Smith Breaks Division I Record

Purdue’s men’s basketball team delivered a commanding 79‑59 victory over Marquette Saturday, highlighted by Oscar Cluff’s flawless shooting and Braden Smith’s historic milestone.

Cluff’s Perfect Night

Oscar Cluff finished the game with a season‑high 22 points, making all nine of his shots. He added 11 rebounds for a double‑double, his second straight. Cluff’s efficiency was the spark that helped Purdue pull away early and maintain control throughout the contest.

Smith’s Record‑Breaking Performance

In just 12 seconds, Braden Smith hooked Fletcher Loyer for a 3‑pointer, joining D.J. Cooper as the second Division I men’s basketball player to reach the 1,500‑point, 850‑assist, 550‑rebound club. Smith’s career totals now stand at 1,515 points, 859 assists and 759 rebounds. He also contributed 7 points and 5 rebounds, while dishing out 10 assists that helped Purdue secure the win.

Game Flow and Key Moments

Purdue opened the scoring with a 12‑0 run, establishing a 21‑8 lead midway through the first half. The Boilermakers extended that advantage with a 37‑19 lead before the break. In the second half, Cluff poured in 13 consecutive points, pushing the score to 53‑29. Purdue’s momentum never faltered, and they capped the game with a 79‑59 triumph.

Marquette, led by Royce Parham’s 19 points, fell behind early and struggled to keep pace. The Golden Eagles shot only 8% from the field and made just 8 of 31 attempts from beyond the arc. Chase Ross added 10 points, but the team could not overcome the deficit. Marquette’s record now sits at 5‑6.

Purdue’s record improves to 10‑1 overall and 2‑0 in Big Ten play, marking the team’s second consecutive win after a 23‑point loss to Iowa State last weekend.

Implications and Upcoming Games

Marquette will open Big East play by hosting Georgetown on Wednesday. Purdue, after a week‑long break, will welcome No. 21 Auburn to Indianapolis next Saturday.

Key Takeaways

• Oscar Cluff shot 100% from the floor, scoring 22 points and grabbing 11 rebounds.
• Braden Smith became the second Division I player to join the 1,500‑point, 850‑assist, 550‑rebound club in 12 seconds.
• Purdue’s 79‑59 win improves their record to 10‑1 overall and 2‑0 in the Big Ten.

Purdue’s dominant performance and Smith’s milestone set the stage for a strong finish to the season, while Marquette looks to rebound in their upcoming Big East matchup.