Purdue Defeats Alabama 87-80 in Road Victory
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Purdue secured a crucial road win against Alabama, defeating the Crimson Tide 87-80 on Saturday. The victory solidifies Purdue’s position as a national championship contender, showcasing resilience and star power against a formidable opponent.
After a relatively quiet first half, Braden Smith, widely considered the best player in college basketball, asserted himself in the second half. Purdue opened the half on a 10-0 run, fueled by Smith, Loyer, and Cox, taking a 53-48 lead at the 16:12 mark.However, Alabama responded with hot shooting from Taylor Bol Bowen and Latrell Wrightsell, briefly taking a 54-53 lead.
The teams traded baskets, with Aiden Holloway’s jumper giving Alabama a 61-57 advantage at the 11:34 mark. Smith then took control, beginning with a pair of free throws at 11:26 and following with a three-pointer, igniting a dominant stretch.
Over the final eleven minutes, Smith scored 14 points, including four crucial points after an Alabama seven-point run tied the game at 80 with 1:42 remaining. Smith drove for a layup and drew a foul, converting both free throws to give Purdue an 84-80 lead with 40 seconds left.
Unexpectedly, it was Purdue’s transfer center, Oscar Cluff, who sealed the victory.Cluff secured key defensive rebounds, drew fouls, and converted three-of-four free throws in the final 30 seconds, turning a tight contest into a decisive win for the Boilermakers.
Purdue improves to [record not provided in text], while Alabama falls to [record not provided in text]. The Boilermakers demonstrated their championship potential with a hard-fought victory on the road.