Purdue (14-4) at Oregon (15-2)
- When: Jan 18 2025, 3:00 PM
- Where: Matthew Knight Arena, Eugene, OR, USA
- Where to watch: NBC
Saturday’s matchup between No. 13 Oregon and No. 17 Purdue promises a thrilling Big Ten showdown in Eugene, Oregon. The Ducks, favored by 2.5 points with a total set at 147.5, will aim to secure their first home win over a Top 25 opponent this season.
Oregon (15-2, 4-2) sits tied for fifth in the conference standings and has already defeated two ranked teams this season, Texas A&M and Alabama, at the Players Era Festival. The Ducks are riding a three-game winning streak, with notable come-from-behind victories against Penn State, Ohio State, and Maryland. Led by 7-foot center Nate Bittle, Oregon boasts a balanced attack. Bittle averages 13.7 points and 7.8 rebounds per game, while point guard Jackson Shelstad provides late-game heroics, averaging 12.5 points and 31.4 minutes per game.
Despite Oregon’s success, slow starts have plagued the team, a trend coach Dana Altman is eager to address. The Ducks have leaned on their defense and clutch performances to pull out wins in close contests.
On the other side, Purdue (14-4, 6-1) has been dominant in Big Ten play, winning six straight games, all by double digits. Coming off a 69-58 victory over Washington, the Boilermakers are firing on all cylinders. Trey Kaufman-Wren leads the way with 17.6 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, while sharpshooters Braden Smith (15.1 ppg, 41.4% 3PT) and Fletcher Loyer (14.1 ppg, 48.7% 3PT) provide offensive firepower. Purdue’s ability to execute from beyond the arc will be a key factor in this game.
Purdue’s dominance in January is notable, boasting an 11-game winning streak in the month dating back to last season. However, they’ve struggled historically against Oregon, going 1-2 all-time in the series.
Prediction and Betting Analysis: Oregon’s home-court advantage and strong interior presence with Bittle should make this a tightly contested game. However, Purdue’s offensive efficiency and recent form suggest they have the edge in execution. Look for the Boilermakers to cover the spread as slight underdogs, with a final score prediction of Purdue 77, Oregon 74.
Betting Props to Watch:
Player Prop: Trey Kaufman-Wren Over 17.5 Points – Kaufman-Wren has been the engine for Purdue and should thrive against Oregon’s defense.
Total Points: Over 147.5 – Both teams can score efficiently, making the over an attractive option.
First Half Winner: Purdue +1.5 – The Boilermakers’ strong starts give them the edge early.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
