Purdue head coach Matt Painter argues that retaining upperclassmen and developing a core within the program is a crucial advantage in the transfer-portal era, contrasting Purdue’s approach with Rutgers’ youth-heavy lineup.

Painter asserts that ongoing development and continuity, built around a stable core, underpin Purdue’s success and stability rather than relying on newly assembled combinations.

Purdue’s veteran core—Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer, and Trey Kaufman-Renn—along with returning sophomores, has driven the team to an 8-0 start and the No. 1 national ranking.

In the win over Rutgers, Kaufman-Renn posted 19 points and 13 rebounds, Smith contributed 16 points and 8 assists, and Loyer added 12, illustrating the impact of experienced players.

Retaining players enables ongoing development and leadership within the program, creating a “corporate DNA” where veterans can help coach the team from within.

The transfer portal and player turnover are framed as broader issues that can undermine program-building and sustained success across college basketball.

Purdue remains undefeated at 8-0, with key contributions from Kaufman-Renn, Loyer, Smith, and Oscar Cluff as part of a balanced, seasoned lineup.

Looking ahead, Purdue is set to host No. 10 Iowa State, while Rutgers travels to face No. 3 Michigan.

Painter emphasizes the senior core’s longevity and synergy, noting that players who have played together for multiple years provide stability and what he calls the program’s “corporate DNA.”

Painter warns that absent firmer transfer-portal guardrails, many programs will struggle to maintain continuity and compete for NCAA Tournament success, Big Ten titles, and coaching job security.

The broader issue, beyond Rutgers, is that player movement challenges coaches’ ability to develop and keep a core group amid the freedom of movement in college basketball.

Rutgers relies more on freshmen, with seven freshmen on the roster and several in heavy minutes, suggesting that freshman development can be disrupted if players transfer after early success.