Nov. 8, 2004
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. -
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Behind a dominating performance from its frontcourt, Purdue defeated Washburn, 81-72, in the first exhibition game of the season in Mackey Arena on Monday night.
Purdue's front line scored 54 points and tallied 27 rebounds.
"Our big guys played well tonight," said head coach Gene Keady. "We knew we had an advantage on the interior and one of our goals was to exploit that."
The Boilermakers were led by junior-college transfer Carl Landry, who scored a team-high 21 points on 11-of-12 shooting from the free throw line. Junior Matt Kiefer added 16 points and nine rebounds.
"Carl played well tonight and that was a difference maker," said Keady. "We would like to see a high energy level from Carl every time he steps on the floor. Once he does that, he can be a very special player."
Purdue used its height to rack up a 43-36 advantage on the glass. The Boilermakers aggressive offense led to 42 free throw attempts and 20 turnovers.
"I like the fact that we were looking to score and being up-tempo," said Keady. "I obviously don't like the turnover, but a lot of that is when Brandon McKnight and Bryant Dillon were in foul trouble."
Washburn was led by Travis Robbins, who scored a game-high 25 points.
Purdue's newcomers were impressive in their debuts. In addition to Landry's 21, freshman Xavier Price scored 10 points and collected a team-high three steals. Junior Gary Ware scored six point and grabbed six rebounds and guard Bryant Dillon scored five points and dished out two assists.
"I couldn't be happier with our new guys," said Keady. "To play like they did in their first appearance was encouraging. I like how they handled the situation."
Purdue limited the Ichabods to 37.8 percent shooting from the floor.
Purdue faces St. Joseph's (Ind.) in its second and final exhibition game of the season on Sunday, Nov. 14, at 5 p.m. EST in Mackey Arena.