Purdue Boilermakers Outlast Tennessee Volunteers in Elite Eight Midwest Regional

The Purdue Boilermakers, ranked 3rd, edged out a victory against the 6th-ranked Tennessee Volunteers with a final score of 72-66. The Boilermakers now stand with an impressive tally of points scored throughout the game, while the Volunteers accumulated fewer in comparison.

In what was a tightly contested battle at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, the Purdue Boilermakers showcased their dominance on the boards with a total rebound count of 47 compared to Tennessee's 26. The home team's tenacity was particularly evident on the defensive end where they grabbed 32 rebounds; this effort was crucial in limiting second-chance points for the Volunteers who managed only nine.

Offensively, Purdue displayed efficiency inside the arc by converting 55 percent of their two-point attempts into made baskets. This inside presence translated into a formidable 40 points in paint, underscoring their ability to penetrate Tennessee's defense effectively. Despite struggling from beyond the arc with only three made three-pointers from fifteen attempts (20 percent), Purdue compensated by drawing fouls and getting to the free-throw line where they hit 21 shots at a rate of 64 percent.

The Boilermakers also demonstrated better ball security as evidenced by zero team turnovers and an assists-to-turnover ratio of 1.6; meanwhile, they capitalized on turnovers by scoring seven points off them. On defense, Purdue managed five steals and two blocks which contributed to disrupting Tennessee's offensive flow.

On the other side of court, despite falling short in rebounds and field goal percentage (39 percent), Tennessee showed resilience especially from long range where they nailed eleven out of twenty-six three-pointers (42 percent). Their fast break execution led to thirteen fast break points but it wasn't enough to overcome their opponents' overall performance.

As for individual contributions for Purdue that stood out during this contest included significant efforts across various statistical categories such as steals and assists which totaled five and sixteen respectively.

Looking ahead without making any predictions or assumptions about future outcomes or performances; fans can anticipate continued coverage as Purdue advances further into March Madness excitement. The next broadcast is scheduled for viewers eager to follow along as this postseason journey unfolds.