Balanced attack lifts Bucks to 77–70 win over Purdue Poly at Bob Wettig Tournament

Richmond, Ind. — Bucks Men’s Basketball closed out a long day at the Bob Wettig Tournament with a hard-fought 77–70 win over Purdue Poly on Tuesday, using a balanced offensive attack and timely late-game execution to secure a five-point victory in the second game of the day.

The Bucks carried a 4-point edge into halftime and spent much of the second half fending off runs from a very athletic Purdue Poly squad. Each time the pace quickened and the lead shrunk to one possession, the Bucks answered with composure in the half-court, getting key scores from their primary options and making enough defensive stands to keep control of the game.

Senior forward Turner Dolata set the tone offensively with a game-high 26 points, attacking the paint and finishing through contact to steady the Bucks whenever Purdue Poly threatened. Dolata’s ability to score in traffic and draw attention inside opened up driving and perimeter lanes for the rest of the lineup, helping Buckeye maintain efficiency against pressure and athleticism on the defensive end.

Guard play proved just as important. Derek Snyderburn added 18 points, providing a consistent scoring punch with drives, midrange looks and timely baskets late in each half. Austin Hyre chipped in 15 points, giving the Bucks a reliable third option and knocking down shots that halted Purdue Poly’s momentum, particularly in the third quarter when the lead briefly narrowed.

Defensively, Buckeye focused on containing Purdue Poly’s transition game and keeping the ball out of the lane, forcing the opposition to score over set half-court defense instead of in the open floor. While Purdue Poly continued to attack and finished with 70 points, the Bucks’ ability to get critical stops in the final minutes — along with securing defensive rebounds to close possessions — preserved the advantage down the stretch.

The win moves Bucks Men’s Basketball to 2–0 on the young season, adding a neutral-site tournament victory to an earlier 71–57 home decision over Bay. With multiple players producing in double figures and the team showing it can close out a second game in one day against an athletic opponent, the Bucks head into the remainder of the Bob Wettig Tournament and the upcoming conference slate with growing confidence and momentum.