In a thrilling college basketball match at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, Purdue emerged victorious over Iowa with a final score of 90-81 after a neck-and-neck first half tie of 36-all. The Boilermakers’ impressive 54-point second half performance secured them the win, shooting 54.8 percent from the floor and sinking nine 3-pointers in the process.
Impressive Second Half Performance
Trailing by 12 points early in the second half, Iowa fought back valiantly to narrow the gap to 80-77 with just under three minutes left on the clock. Despite their efforts, Purdue’s offensive prowess proved too much for the Hawkeyes to overcome, ultimately leading to their defeat.
Standout Performances and Player Stats
Three Iowa players stood out in the game, with Josh Dix leading the charge with an impressive 27 points, shooting 10-of-16 from the field and sinking three 3-pointers. Payton Sandfort contributed 23 points, six rebounds, and five assists, showcasing his versatility on the court. Brock Harding also made his mark with 11 points in the game.
Dix’s stellar performance marked his fourth 20-point game of the season, highlighting his scoring prowess and impact on the team. Sandfort’s impressive stat line included nine made field goals, five of which were 3-pointers, further solidifying his status as a key player for the Hawkeyes.
In total, Iowa made 11 3-point field goals, connecting on 11-of-30 attempts from beyond the arc. This season, the Hawkeyes have consistently showcased their long-range shooting ability, hitting 10+ 3-pointers in 12 games. However, it was only their second loss of the season when shooting over 50 percent from the field, underscoring the competitive nature of the match.
Notable mentions from the game include sophomore Seydou Traore and junior Riley Mulvey, who made their first starts as Hawkeyes. Mulvey’s inaugural start in his 41st career game marked a significant milestone in his collegiate basketball journey, adding to the depth and diversity of Iowa’s lineup.
Looking ahead, the Hawkeyes are set to face off against No. 17 Wisconsin on Saturday at noon in Carver-Hawkeye Arena. As they regroup and prepare for their next challenge, Iowa will undoubtedly be looking to bounce back from their recent loss and showcase their resilience and determination on the court.
