The Purdue Boilermakers secured a straight-sets victory over the defending national champions, No. 12 Texas A&M, during the Big Ten-SEC Challenge on Tuesday at Mackey Arena. The No. 14 Boilermakers maintained control throughout the match, rallying late in each set to close out the contest before a crowd exceeding 10,000 spectators.
Purdue Volleyball Outlasts Texas A&M in Each Set
Purdue claimed the sets with scores of 27-25, 25-23, and 25-20, never allowing Texas A&M to seize momentum during critical moments. The Boilermakers’ offense proved relentless, finishing with a collective hitting percentage of .388, effectively stifling the Aggies’ opportunities to gain ground. Across the three sets, the margin between the two teams amounted to only nine points, yet Texas A&M failed to lead late in any set, dropping their record to 3-3.
Setter Taylor Anderson was instrumental in Purdue’s triumph, delivering 36 assists, seven blocks, and adding five kills on seven attempts. Anderson’s performance drew praise from head coach Dave Shondell, who described her display as “fabulous” and exactly what the team needed. Likewise, outside hitter Addy Tindall showed remarkable consistency, converting at an impressive .536 rate on 28 attacks. Complementing Tindall’s efforts, Kate Hansen matched a .545 hitting efficiency, contributing seven kills and six blocks.
Coach Shondell also highlighted Tindall’s development, noting her progression to the level of a seasoned third-year outside hitter. The synergy among Purdue’s front and backcourt players proved decisive in overcoming the reigning champions and setting a strong tone for the Big Ten-SEC Challenge week.
Beyond the win on the scoreboard, the match marked a significant milestone for Coach Shondell personally, as his victory elevated him past Gene Keady to become Purdue’s all-time leader in wins.