If the Iowa Hawkeyes want a top four finish in the Big Ten race then tonight’s game at home against Purdue is crucial. At 7-6 in the Big Ten The Hawkeyes are tied with Illinois and sit a half game in front of the Boilermakers.
Iowa coach Steve Alford says the senior duo of David Teague and Carl Landry make Purdue go. He says they both had a redshirt year, so they’ve been in the league a long time. Both average 18 to 19 points, but Alford says their experience is the key thing they bring to the team.
Both of these teams are considered pleasant surprises in the Big Ten race. Alford says there’s a lot of work to be done, and if Purdue finishes strong, people will say they’re a surprise. Alford says his team is in the same boat, but has to finish strong.
Purdue is 17-9 overall and says this is a big game for the Boiler’s NCAA Tournament hopes. Purdue coach Matt Painter says head-to-head battles late with teams in the same position will be huge games, including this one against Iowa. Painter says a winning record in the Big Ten would be a huge boost for his team. He says having a quality resume is important to the team, and they want to improve by winning. Purdue is 17-9 overall.