UCLA Bruins vs Purdue Boilermakers – NCAA Basketball Preview – February 28, 2025
The UCLA Bruins travel to Mackey Arena to take on the Purdue Boilermakers in a Big Ten matchup on Friday night, with tip-off set for 8:00 PM ET. Both teams are looking to solidify their position for the upcoming Big Ten Tournament, as UCLA (20-8) sits fifth in the conference, while Purdue (19-9) is right behind in sixth place.
This is the first meeting between these programs as Big Ten foes, and it comes with historical significance as it pits John Wooden’s alma mater against the school where he won 10 national championships. The Bruins and Boilermakers last faced off in December 2000, and both teams are eager to gain momentum heading into March.
UCLA Bruins Preview – Defense Key to Road Success?
UCLA bounced back from a surprising home loss to Minnesota with a 69-61 win over Ohio State. The Bruins have been solid defensively, allowing just 64.6 points per game, which ranks 23rd nationally. Coach Mick Cronin’s squad has been anchored by Eric Dailey Jr., who recently scored 20 points against the Buckeyes after a five-game stretch without reaching double figures.
Dailey (11.6 ppg) is a crucial part of UCLA’s defensive strategy, averaging 1.3 steals per game. Tyler Bilodeau leads the team in scoring with 13.9 points per game, while Kobe Johnson, who also averages 1.8 steals per contest, contributes a team-high 6.0 rebounds per game.
The Bruins have hit the 1H Moneyline in 23 of their last 34 games and have covered the spread in 20 of their last 34 games. They are 4-4 on the road this season and will need a strong defensive showing to overcome Purdue’s potent offense.
Purdue Boilermakers Preview – Can Purdue Break the Losing Streak?
Purdue is on a four-game losing streak, with the latest setback being a 73-58 loss to Indiana despite holding a 12-point halftime lead. Guard Fletcher Loyer highlighted the team’s struggles with “small, minor mistakes” leading to losses. The Boilermakers previously fell to Top 25 teams Michigan, Wisconsin, and Michigan State, showcasing their difficulties against tough competition.
Trey Kaufman-Renn leads Purdue in scoring with 19.2 points per game, while Braden Smith contributes 15.8 points and 8.7 assists per contest. Smith has struggled recently, failing to score in double digits in the last two games and recording six turnovers in both outings.
Purdue remains strong at home with a 12-2 record. They have hit the 1H Moneyline in 26 of their last 38 games and won 21 of their last 25 home matchups. The Boilermakers need a win to regain momentum before the Big Ten Tournament and to keep pace with Wisconsin for a top-four finish in the conference standings.
Betting Prediction
Purdue is a slight favorite at home, and the total for this game is expected to be relatively low, considering both teams’ defensive metrics. The Bruins’ strong defensive play and Purdue’s recent struggles suggest a tightly contested game.
Predicted score: Purdue 68, UCLA 66. Expect a close battle with the Boilermakers potentially pulling out a narrow victory. The under on the total points may also be a good play.
Pick: Purdue Boilermakers Moneyline, Under on total points
