Purdue spends afternoon downtown in win vs. Minnesota; long distance success keys win

West Lafayette, IN, United States (AHN Sports) – Purdue knocked down seven triples in the second half in its 73-61 win over 16th-ranked Minnesota.

The 12th-ranked Boilermakers trailed in the first half before catching fire from downtown. Ryne Smith and Lewis Jackson each hit three from beyond the arc to improve Purdue to 18-4 overall and 7-2 in the Big Ten.

JaJuan Johnson finished with a game-high 24-points. It’s the sixth consecutive game he’s scored at least 20.

Minnesota’s front court helped them stick around early before eventually falling short.

Trevor Mbakwe recorded a double-double (17-points, 12-rebounds) and Ralph Sampson III chipped in 11-points and five boards.

Purdue (18-4, 7-2) goes on the road Tuesday at Wisconsin.

Minnesota (16-5, 5-4) stays in the Hoosier State. The Gophers face Indiana Wednesday night.

---