Purdue (8-3) at Auburn (10-1)
- When: Dec 21 2024, 4:30 PM
- Where: Legacy Arena at BJCC, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Where to watch: ESPN
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Purdue (#16) @ Auburn (#2)
Moneyline
Purdue (#16) +315
Auburn (#2) -420
Purdue (#16) @ Auburn (#2)
Point Spread
Purdue (#16) 8.5 (-110)
Auburn (#2) -8.5 (-110)
Purdue (#16) @ Auburn (#2)
Total
Over 148.5 (-110)
Under 148.5 (-110)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Team Stats
| Purdue | Auburn | |
| 8-3 | Record | 10-1 |
| 0-2 | Away & Home | 5-0 |
| 5-6-0 | ATS | 9-2-0 |
| 6-5-0 | O/U | 7-4-0 |
Last Matchup:
PUR 96-71, November 23rd, 2016
Game Preview
The availability of Auburn standout Johni Broome remains uncertain for Saturday’s high-stakes non-conference matchup between the No. 2 Tigers and No. 16 Purdue, set to tip off in Birmingham, Ala.
Broome suffered a right shoulder injury during the opening minutes of Auburn’s dominant 100-59 win over Georgia State on Tuesday. While an MRI confirmed no significant damage, Auburn (10-1) has yet to provide a clear timeline for his return. Broome, who missed Thursday’s practice, is officially listed as questionable.
“He will travel with the team,” Auburn coach Bruce Pearl said. “But I couldn’t tell you his status—whether he’s questionable or unlikely. The good news is that it’s not a long-term issue.”
Broome’s status may hinge on whether he practices Friday, as Pearl typically refrains from playing athletes who skip the final pregame session. Auburn will undoubtedly hope for Broome’s presence, as he leads the team with averages of 18.1 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game.
Purdue coach Matt Painter is eager for the challenge of facing Broome, calling him one of the best players in the nation. “If the season ended today, it looks like he’d be the National Player of the Year,” Painter said. “He demands attention, and his ability to pass makes him truly special.”
In Broome’s absence against Georgia State, reserve forward Chaney Johnson delivered a breakout performance, scoring a career-high 26 points on 12-of-14 shooting. “It felt great to contribute more,” Johnson said. “Playing behind two of the best bigs in the country is an honor, and I was ready when my name was called.” Johnson is averaging 10.6 points and 6.0 rebounds, ranking as Auburn’s fifth-leading scorer.
Purdue (8-3), meanwhile, is looking to rebound after losing two of its last three games, including a narrow 70-66 defeat to then-No. 17 Texas A&M in the Indy Classic. The Boilermakers struggled on the boards in that game, losing the rebounding battle 34-23 and allowing the Aggies to shoot 24 free throws compared to Purdue’s 10.
“We have to do a better job defending the dribble and keeping the ball in front of us,” Painter noted.
Trey Kaufman-Renn leads Purdue with 18.2 points and 6.5 rebounds per game but managed just 11 points and four rebounds against Texas A&M. Supporting him is Fletcher Loyer, who averages 13.5 points and shoots an impressive 50 percent from beyond the arc. Guard Braden Smith is another key contributor, averaging 13.4 points, 8.5 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game while shooting 42.6 percent from 3-point range.
Auburn enters the game with a strong résumé, boasting a 3-1 record against ranked teams this season. Purdue, at 2-2 against ranked opponents, earned a signature 87-78 win over then-No. 2 Alabama on Nov. 15 but fell to Penn State and Texas A&M in recent weeks.
Historically, Purdue holds a 2-1 advantage over Auburn, including a decisive 96-71 win during the 2016 Cancun Challenge. The teams are set to meet again next year in the Indy Classic in Indianapolis.
For bettors, Auburn’s ability to adjust without Broome will be key. If Broome sits, Purdue’s balanced offense and sharp 3-point shooting could make them a strong play, particularly against the spread. However, if Broome suits up, Auburn’s depth and home-court energy could give them the edge. Keep an eye on injury updates and consider Purdue’s recent struggles when placing bets.
NCAA Basketball Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Auburn 79-73
The Pick: Purdue +8½ & Over 148½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $364
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
