Event Preview
Overview
On Saturday, December 6, 2025, the No. 1 Purdue Boilermakers will host the No. 10 Iowa State Cyclones at Mackey Arena in West Lafayette, Indiana. This highly anticipated non-conference matchup features two undefeated teams, each boasting an 8-0 record. The game is scheduled to tip off at 12:00 PM ET and will be broadcast nationally on CBS. (purduesports.com)
Season Snapshot
Purdue Boilermakers
Under the leadership of head coach Matt Painter, Purdue has demonstrated a balanced and efficient style of play. The Boilermakers lead the nation in assist-to-turnover ratio (2.17) and rank fifth in assists per game (20.6). Their offensive prowess is further highlighted by a fifth-place ranking in three-point shooting percentage (.418) and a 14th-place standing in rebound margin (+11.6). Purdue's scoring margin of +21.0 places them 16th nationally, underscoring their dominance on both ends of the court. (purduesports.com)
Iowa State Cyclones
Coached by T.J. Otzelberger, Iowa State has been a formidable force this season. The Cyclones recently set school records with a 132-68 victory over Alcorn State, achieving the highest point total and most three-pointers in a single game in program history. Milan Momcilovic led the charge with a career-high 27 points, including eight three-pointers, while Jamarion Batemon added 26 points, making seven three-pointers. Despite missing standout point guard Tamin Lipsey, who is expected to return for this game, Iowa State's offense has been prolific, averaging 96.3 points per game and leading the nation in field-goal percentage (55.0%). (reuters.com)
Recent Form
Purdue Boilermakers
Purdue enters this game on an eight-game winning streak, with their most recent victory being an 81-65 triumph over Rutgers in their Big Ten opener. Trey Kaufman-Renn contributed a season-high-tying 19 points and 13 rebounds in that contest. The Boilermakers have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, with five different players leading the team in scoring across various games this season. (cbssports.com)
Iowa State Cyclones
Iowa State has also maintained an impressive winning streak, highlighted by their record-breaking performance against Alcorn State. The Cyclones' offense has been firing on all cylinders, with their recent surge against Marquette showcasing their ability to execute both offensively and defensively. Keshon Gilbert's 24-point, seven-assist performance was instrumental in their 81-70 victory over the Golden Eagles. (reuters.com)
Talking Points
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Tamin Lipsey's Return: The potential return of Iowa State's point guard Tamin Lipsey, who missed the Alcorn State game due to injury, could significantly impact the Cyclones' performance.
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Purdue's Defensive Strategy: How will Purdue's defense, which has been effective in limiting opponents' scoring, adjust to Iowa State's high-powered offense?
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Three-Point Shooting Battle: Both teams have demonstrated proficiency from beyond the arc; which team will establish dominance in this area?
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Rebounding Matchup: Purdue's strong rebounding margin (+11.6) faces a test against Iowa State's efficient shooting; how will this dynamic unfold?
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Coaching Tactics: The strategic approaches of coaches Matt Painter and T.J. Otzelberger will be crucial in determining the game's outcome.
Players to Watch
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Tamin Lipsey (Iowa State): The Cyclones' point guard is known for his defensive prowess and playmaking abilities; his return could be pivotal.
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Milan Momcilovic (Iowa State): After a record-breaking performance against Alcorn State, Momcilovic's shooting touch will be a key factor.
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Trey Kaufman-Renn (Purdue): His recent double-double performance against Rutgers highlights his importance in Purdue's frontcourt.
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Fletcher Loyer (Purdue): A consistent scorer for the Boilermakers, Loyer's perimeter shooting will be vital in this matchup.
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Braden Smith (Purdue): As a dynamic playmaker, Smith's ability to facilitate and score will be crucial for Purdue's offense.
Key Matchups & Storylines
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Point Guard Duel: The matchup between Purdue's Braden Smith and Iowa State's Tamin Lipsey could be a game-changer, with both players capable of dictating the tempo.
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Frontcourt Battle: Purdue's Trey Kaufman-Renn and Iowa State's Joshua Jefferson will vie for dominance in the paint, impacting rebounding and scoring.
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Three-Point Shooting: Both teams excel from beyond the arc; the team that controls this aspect may gain a significant advantage.
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Coaching Strategies: The tactical decisions made by Matt Painter and T.J. Otzelberger will be instrumental in navigating this high-stakes contest.
Fun Facts
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Purdue leads the all-time series with Iowa State 3-2, with the most recent meeting being a 104-96 victory for the Cyclones in the 1987-88 season. (purduesports.com)
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Iowa State's 132 points against Alcorn State set a new school record for the most points scored in a single game. (reuters.com)
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Purdue's assist-to-turnover ratio of 2.17 leads the nation, showcasing their disciplined offensive play. (purduesports.com)
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The Cyclones' 73.3% shooting from three-point range against Alcorn State is among the highest in NCAA history for a single game. (reuters.com)
Things to Chirp About
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"Can Purdue's defense contain Iowa State's explosive offense?"
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"Will Tamin Lipsey's return be the spark Iowa State needs?"
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"How will Purdue's balanced scoring attack fare against the Cyclones?"
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"Which team will establish dominance from beyond the arc?"
Prediction
This matchup promises to be a thrilling contest between two high-powered offenses. While Purdue's balanced attack and defensive prowess give them an edge, Iowa State's recent offensive explosion and potential return of Tamin Lipsey make them formidable opponents. The game is expected to be closely contested, with Purdue's home-court advantage potentially tipping the scales in their favor.