Control the boards
Nick Ward is an absolute beast inside for the Spartans and he is definitely not afraid of contact. He is very good at getting offensive and defensive rebounds. He is averaging just over six rebounds a game and, with Kenny Goins (9.3 rpg) and Xavier Tillman (7.9 rpg) as well, the Spartans can completely control the boards in any game.
The Boilermakers have the size in seven-footer Haarms and 6’8″ Boudreaux to neutralize the Spartans, but they have to be tough inside. Like we mentioned, the big guys for the Spartans are not afraid of contact and will mix it up inside. It will be a tough assignment for the Boilermakers but if they want to win the game, they have to win the rebound battle.
The Spartans live on getting second-chance points and also running off of defensive rebounds. The more the Boilermakers can limit that, the better they will be. If Purdue cannot keep Ward and company off the boards, it could be a long day.