Washington Huskies vs Purdue Boilermakers Picks and Predictions January 15th 2025

No. 17 Purdue, leaning on Braden Smith, visits Washington

Purdue’s star point guard Braden Smith has earned a reputation as one of the most dynamic passers in college basketball. As No. 17 Purdue heads to Seattle for a Wednesday night showdown against Washington in Big Ten play, Smith’s ability to balance his scoring and playmaking will be crucial.

Sign Up!

Purdue’s Winning Momentum

The Boilermakers (13-4, 5-1 Big Ten) are on a five-game winning streak, with their victories coming by an impressive average margin of 22.2 points. With a strong mix of individual talent and team efficiency, they’re positioned as heavy favorites.

Smith, the team’s second-leading scorer (15.0 points per game), also ranks third nationally with 9.2 assists per game. His recent performances include back-to-back 14-assist games and five outings this season where he’s surpassed 20 points, including a career-high 34 against Toledo. Yet, Purdue coach Matt Painter sees untapped potential in Smith’s scoring ability.

“Sometimes we’ve got to get him to shoot the basketball because that’s what this team needs,” said Painter. “But his unselfishness is contagious in a good way. It elevates everyone.”

In Purdue’s 104-68 demolition of Nebraska on Sunday, Smith focused on facilitating, scoring eight points and adding 14 assists. The Boilermakers shot a blistering 63.1% from the field, including 19 of 33 from beyond the arc, narrowly missing a school record.

Depth and Firepower

Purdue’s success isn’t solely dependent on Smith. Freshman guard C.J. Cox delivered a career-best 23 points on 9-of-11 shooting, including five 3-pointers, in the win over Nebraska. Fletcher Loyer also impressed, sinking five treys en route to 19 points, while Trey Kaufman-Renn, the team’s leading scorer (17.5 PPG), added 15 points, seven assists, and six rebounds.

With such balanced contributions, the Boilermakers have proven they can dominate opponents through both individual brilliance and collective effort.

Washington Faces an Uphill Battle

The Huskies (10-7, 1-5 Big Ten) are reeling after three straight losses, all against ranked teams. First-year coach Danny Sprinkle acknowledges the gap between his program and the elite competition they’ve faced.

“It showed us where we have to get to as a program,” Sprinkle said, reflecting on Washington’s back-to-back blowout losses to Michigan State and Michigan. “From a physicality standpoint to what kind of bodies the guards and bigs have, we’ve got work to do.”

Forward Great Osobor has been Washington’s bright spot. After struggling in two prior games, Osobor tied his season high with 23 points and added 11 rebounds against Michigan. His season averages of 14.3 points and 8.6 rebounds underscore his importance to the team.

Sprinkle praised Osobor’s resilience, saying, “His effort and energy were phenomenal. He was aggressive the entire game and put constant pressure on Michigan.”

Basketball Betting Guide

Head-to-Head and Historical Context

Purdue has won four of its five all-time matchups with Washington, including a 76-74 victory in the 2009 NCAA Tournament. As both teams prepare for this game, the contrast between Purdue’s offensive efficiency and Washington’s rebuilding phase is stark.

For Washington, facing Purdue represents yet another step in a grueling five-game stretch against ranked teams. After the Boilermakers, the Huskies will travel to face No. 13 Oregon.

Game Implications

Purdue’s hot streak and depth make them the favorite, but Washington’s ability to adapt against tough opponents could make for a competitive contest. The Boilermakers will rely on their balanced attack, while the Huskies need standout performances from Osobor and their supporting cast to have a chance.

This Big Ten clash is not just another game—it’s a litmus test for both teams. For Purdue, it’s about sustaining their dominance and sharpening their play as they eye postseason success. For Washington, it’s a chance to measure progress and challenge one of the conference’s top teams.

NCAAB Expert Handicappers

Conclusion

As the Boilermakers aim for their sixth consecutive win, all eyes will be on Braden Smith to lead the charge. Meanwhile, Washington hopes to bounce back and show growth against yet another formidable opponent. This matchup is poised to be a pivotal moment for both teams in their respective seasons.