Braden Smith has averaged almost three steals over the past eight games, and the Boilermakers' turnover creation has spiked as well.

It was another 40-minute night for Purdue point guard Braden Smith. Due to circumstance, the Boilers needed him to take over. Then he did.

The game was tied at 41 when Smith and Loyer hit back-to-back 3-pointers in a 30-second span, starting the key run for the Boilermakers. Purdue made 8 of its first 9 shots in the second half, including 5 of 5 on 3-pointers.

Purdue lacked energy in the first half on Tuesday night against Iowa. At halftime, Braden Smith reminded his teammates of their goals this season, which provided a major second-half spark.