UCLA (20-8) at Purdue (19-9)
- When: Feb 28 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: Mackey Arena, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Where to watch: FOX
Game Preview
Line: Purdue -5.5
Total: 140.0
A compelling Big Ten showdown takes place Friday night as No. 20 Purdue hosts UCLA in West Lafayette. With both teams tied in the conference standings, this matchup carries significant postseason implications as they battle for a top-four seed and a double-bye in the Big Ten Tournament.
Both programs share a historical connection to John Wooden, the legendary coach who led UCLA to 10 national championships after playing for Purdue as a college athlete. Their last meeting was in December 2000, but this will be the first time they face off as Big Ten rivals.
Purdue Boilermakers: Searching for a Bounce-Back Performance
Purdue (19-9, 11-6 Big Ten) is in desperate need of a win, having lost four straight games, including a disastrous second-half collapse against Indiana in their latest outing. After holding a 12-point halftime lead, the Boilermakers completely unraveled, suffering a 73-58 loss to their in-state rival.
Key Factors for Purdue:
Slumping Offense: The Boilermakers have struggled to score during their losing streak, failing to crack 70 points in their last three losses.
Turnover Woes: Guard Braden Smith, who is averaging 15.8 points and 8.7 assists, has committed six turnovers in back-to-back games.
Trey Kaufman-Renn Leading the Way: The team’s top scorer (19.2 PPG) must step up early and help Purdue avoid another second-half meltdown.
Despite their recent downward spiral, Purdue remains just one game back of third-place Wisconsin, making this game a must-win to stay in the top-four conversation.
Player Prop Predictions for Purdue:
Braden Smith Over 7.5 Assists: Even with his turnover issues, he remains one of the best facilitators in college basketball.
Trey Kaufman-Renn Over 18.5 Points: Purdue needs its leading scorer to deliver in this crucial matchup.
UCLA Bruins: Defensive Identity Remains Their Strength
UCLA (20-8, 11-6 Big Ten) has rebounded nicely from a shocking loss to Minnesota, taking down Ohio State 69-61 on Sunday. The Bruins pride themselves on defense, ranking 23rd nationally by allowing just 64.6 points per game.
Key Factors for UCLA:
Strong Defensive Presence: Led by Kobe Johnson (1.8 steals per game), UCLA will pressure Purdue’s backcourt and look to force turnovers.
Eric Dailey Jr. Stepping Up: After a rough five-game stretch, Dailey bounced back with a 20-point performance against Ohio State.
Winning the Rebounding Battle: Johnson leads the team with 6.0 rebounds per game, and securing second-chance opportunities will be crucial.
UCLA knows Purdue is vulnerable right now, and the Bruins will try to set the tone early with their physical defense.
Player Prop Predictions for UCLA:
Eric Dailey Jr. Over 13.5 Points: Coming off a big game, he could be UCLA’s X-factor again.
Kobe Johnson Over 5.5 Rebounds: A key piece in UCLA’s defensive rebounding effort.
Final Betting Predictions:
Spread Pick: UCLA +5.5 – The Bruins match up well defensively and Purdue is struggling to close out games.
Total Pick: Under 140.0 – Both teams prioritize defense, making this a low-scoring battle.
Final Verdict: Purdue needs a win, but UCLA’s defense will keep them in the game. Look for a hard-fought battle, with the Boilermakers surviving late.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
