Purdue rolls past Central Connecticut State 109-73
By CLIFF BRUNT
ISL Editor
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (AP) — I’ll take a few moments to examine the five things I said to look for in the Purdue-Central Connecticut State game. The Boilermakers won 109-73 on Wednesday night for their highest point total since 1997.
1. What will Purdue get out of A.J. Hammons?
Hammons, who was suspended for the two exhibition games and the regular-season opener, started and had 12 points, seven blocks and five rebounds in just 17 minutes. Painter said he still wants more from his 7-foot center in the focus department. Still, there was much to like here. Hammons is much quicker up and down the floor and more assertive with his offensive moves. As a defender, he was smart about blocking shots, committing just one foul. He completely altered CCSU’s game plan and turned the Blue Devils into a jump shooting team.
2. What will change after the close call vs. Northern Kentucky?
The only real change was that Hammons replaced Jay Simpson in the starting lineup. It’s hard to say what might have been different if the game had been closer. Errick Peck remained a starter, which probably is worth noting. Peck was strong again, posting 11 points, five rebounds and three assists.
3. Is Ronnie Johnson clearly the guy at point guard?
Johnson had 11 points, five rebounds and four assists in 19 minutes with just one turnover. His backup, Bryson Scott played 20 minutes and finished with eight points, three rebounds, one assist and one turnover. At this point, it looks like Johnson’s job, but Scott is going to be a key contributor.
4. Will the defense improve?
Purdue’s defense was better this time out. The Boilermakers held the Blue Devils to 35 percent shooting, outrebounded them 52-41 and blocked 13 shots.
5. Are the Boilermakers mentally tough?
CCSU’s coach, Howie Dickenman, specifically mentioned Purdue’s toughness in the postgame press conference. The Boilermakers shrugged off their ugly opening performance with a solid effort. Both Painter and Dickenman agreed that the Blue Devils didn’t play their best, but overall, the Boilermakers left an impression, and that’s a good sign for a team that has so many young players.
