WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – IU Indy held a five-point lead entering the fourth quarter, but Purdue rallied late to hand the Jaguars an 81-73 loss in Monday night's season opener at Mackey Arena.
The Jaguars came out firing, scoring 24 points in the first quarter and making five three-pointers to take a 24-15 lead. IU Indy stayed in front through halftime, 38-33, and carried a 57-52 advantage into the final period.
Olivia Smith led IU Indy with 16 points, while Destini Craig added 15 and Hailey Smith scored 14. Reagan Sipla chipped in 11 points, including three first-quarter three-pointers. The Jaguars forced 23 turnovers and collected 10 steals.
Purdue took control in the closing minutes. After Craig's basket put IU Indy ahead 67-63 with 4:25 remaining, Jelena Bulajic hit a three to give the Boilermakers a 68-67 lead. Purdue then extended the margin and finished the fourth quarter with 29 points, including 12-of-14 shooting at the free-throw line.
The Jaguars return to Indianapolis on Thursday, Nov. 5, to host SIUE at 6:30 p.m. at James T. Morris Arena.
