Purdue reached the national championship game in 2024, losing to Connecticut.

'We've been able to sustain excellence and do a lot of things, but we haven't done that big thing,' Painter said.

Purdue has three multi-year starters in its lineup, as well as several talented newcomers.

You know coachspeak: "Take it one game at a time." "Don't look past your next opponent." That sort of thing.

Purdue basketball coach Matt Painter will offer those warnings when discussing his 2025-26 Boilermakers , but he won't shy from talking big, even with the ultimate prize months away.

Painter, entering his 21st season at Purdue, told college basketball reporter Jon Rothstein this week that a national championship is his goal , and that it should be attainable this season.

"Your expectations

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