Purdue basketball started the season as the national championship favorites, but the Boilermakers struggled late in the regular season. They appear to be contenders again after a four-wins-in-four-days Big Ten Tournament championship capped by a victory over top-seeded Michigan.
Purdue, which was considered a No. 3 or 4 seed just a week earlier, is the No. 2 seed behind Arizona in the West Regional. The Boilermakers open NCAA Tournament play Friday night against No. 15 seed Queens (which is not in New York, but Charlotte, North Carolina) in St. Louis.
The Boilers are getting some love from national experts, particularly CBS’ Clark Kellogg. Here’s how ESPN’s Jay Bilas sees Purdue’s prospects.
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ESPN’s Jay Bilas on Purdue basketball in 2026 March Madness: How will Purdue do in the NCAA Tournament?
When does Purdue basketball play in March Madness? Where does Purdue basketball play in March Madness? Purdue vs. Queens start time in NCAA Tournament 2026
The Purdue-Queens game is at 7:35 p.m. ET Friday, March 20, 2026, at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis.
Where to watch Purdue basketball in March Madness: What channel is Purdue basketball on vs. Queens on Friday, March 20?
The game is on TruTV.
What NCAA Tournament action on Sling
How much are Purdue basketball tickets in March Madness? How much are Purdue vs. Queens NCAA Tournament tickets?
Check Purdue ticket availability on StubHub
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This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: ESPN’s Jay Bilas predicts Purdue basketball results in 2026 NCAA Tournament
Reporting by Scott Horner, Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
