A Brotherly Battle in Indianapolis
Purdue’s men’s basketball team will open its nonconference slate against Colorado in the Indy Classic on December 19, a game that has already generated buzz for more than just the competition.
The matchup will showcase a rare brotherly duel, with Purdue’s Daniel Jacobsen facing off against his younger sibling Eric, a freshman who will be wearing a Colorado jersey. The storyline adds a personal layer to an otherwise routine schedule game.
Colorado enters the contest under the guidance of Coach Tad Boyle, a veteran leader who has guided the Buffaloes to six NCAA tournament appearances and five NIT bids over his 16‑year tenure. Boyle’s experience and the Buffaloes’ recent form make them a formidable opponent.
The game is part of a broader nonconference plan that pits Purdue against eight teams that finished in the top 100 of the NET rankings, including traditional powerhouses such as Gonzaga, Tennessee and Iowa State. This schedule reflects Purdue’s intent to test its squad against elite competition before conference play.
The Indy Classic itself was conceived by Purdue after the conclusion of the Crossroads Classic, marking a new chapter in the university’s basketball tradition. The event now serves as a showcase for high‑profile matchups and draws fans from across the country.