The Boilermakers are set to open their 2026‑27 preseason on October 22, when they host Purdue Fort Wayne at the historic Allen County War Memorial Coliseum. The exhibition game is the first of three warm‑up contests, with additional matchups slated against Ball State on October 18 and a trip to face Connecticut on October 27.
A fertile recruiting ground
Fort Wayne has long served as a hotbed for Purdue’s recruiting efforts, producing a string of standout players who have gone on to contribute at the collegiate level. Alumni such as Fletcher Loyer, Caleb Furst, Grady Eifert, Caleb Swanigan, Rapheal Davis and the recently transferred Corey Hadnot illustrate the region’s impact on the program’s talent pool.
Last season the Mastodons posted a 17‑15 record, but their momentum was tempered by the departure of Corey Hadnot, who transferred to Houston. Purdue’s coaching staff now faces the task of integrating ten returning players while replacing four starters from the Elite Eight‑finishing squad.
Looking ahead
The upcoming exhibition series will serve as a laboratory for the new roster, giving coaches and fans alike a chance to evaluate chemistry, defensive schemes and the development of emerging talent before the regular season begins.