Live Game Thread & Updates for Ball State vs. Purdue

Purdue opens its 2026-27 basketball campaign with an exhibition matchup against Ball State. Follow along for live updates from a sold-out Mackey Arena.

Dec 29, 2025; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA; Purdue Boilermakers center Daniel Jacobsen (12) grabs a rebound over Kent State Golden Flashes forward Rob Whaley Jr. (2) during the second half at Mackey Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Purdue opens its 2026-27 campaign Sunday afternoon with an exhibition against the Ball State Cardinals. There will be plenty for Boilermaker fans to watch, as Purdue enters the season with at least four new starters.

Purdue Boilermakers on SI will have live coverage of today's exhibition game from Mackey Arena in West Lafayette. Follow along for live updates, news, and analysis throughout the game. You can refresh this page frequently for the latest happenings.

Ball State vs. Purdue live game blog

Tipoff between Ball State and Purdue is scheduled for 2 p.m. ET. The game will air on BTN+.

Starting lineups

• Ball State — #0 Sean Blake (G), #1 Trey Lewis (G), #5 K'Jei Parker (G), #24 Mason Jones (F), #7 Jaden Smith (C).

• Purdue — #0 CJ Cox (G), #17 Omer Mayer (G), #24 Gicarri Harris (G), #8 Caden Pierce (F), #12 Daniel Jacobsen (C).

What I'm watching for

• How well does the frontcourt operate with new faces in new roles?

• Is Antione West truly the star of this team?

• Do the freshmen look capable of cracking the rotation?
  

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