Purdue senior forward Trey Kaufman-Renn missed the Boilermakers’ season opener against Evansville on Tuesday night due to a hip pointer and a sore back. Head coach Matt Painter provided a reassuring update after the team’s 82–51 victory, noting that the injury is not considered serious and that Kaufman-Renn is expected to return soon. Painter revealed that Kaufman-Renn was close to playing but held out as a precaution early in the season. Purdue is preparing for its next game against Oakland on Friday, with Kaufman-Renn’s status remaining day-to-day.
What Happened to Trey Kaufman-Renn?
The setback occurred during Monday’s practice when Kaufman-Renn began feeling discomfort in his hip. Painter explained postgame, “He practiced Monday, and at the end, a hip pointer started bothering him. He tried to go Tuesday, but we didn’t want to risk it.”
Kaufman-Renn earned All-Big Ten honors last season, averaging 20.1 points and 6.5 rebounds per game while shooting nearly 60% from the field. As a preseason Naismith National Player of the Year watch-list nominee, his health remains crucial for Purdue’s 2024–25 campaign.
Coach Matt Painter’s Encouraging Update
Following Purdue’s win, Painter emphasized a cautious but optimistic approach to his star’s recovery:
“We’ll get some tests done and kind of see where he is,” Painter said. “I don’t expect him to be out long. He might miss Friday, but I don’t expect him to be out a long time, if at all.”
Painter credited the team’s depth and early-season flexibility, noting that Purdue will not rush Kaufman-Renn back.
How the Boilermakers Are Adjusting
With Kaufman-Renn sidelined, redshirt freshman Jack Benter stepped into the starting lineup and impressed in his debut, scoring 11 points, including three three-pointers, and adding six rebounds.
Benter’s performance demonstrated Purdue’s depth at the forward position. Painter praised his readiness, saying Benter has “worked hard all offseason and can reliably fill in at the four spot.”
Even without their star, the Boilermakers’ dominant win over Evansville reaffirmed their Top 5 ranking and offensive balance heading into a tough early schedule.
What’s Next for Trey Kaufman-Renn and Purdue
Purdue faces Oakland on Friday, followed by a marquee matchup against No. 15 Alabama in Tuscaloosa on November 13. Kaufman-Renn’s availability for Friday remains uncertain, but all signs point to a short absence.
The Purdue medical staff is treating the injury day-to-day, and fans can expect a further update before the Alabama game. Painter made it clear the team’s priority is long-term health over short-term risk.
Sources
ESPN: Purdue Basketball News
247Sports: Big Ten Updates
On3: College Hoops Injury Tracker
