This Is Purdue

Lessons in Leadership and Loyalty From Purdue Men’s Basketball

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In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to P.J. Thompson, assistant coach for Purdue men’s basketball. 


During his time at Purdue, P.J. (BS organizational leadership ’18), was a three-year starter on the team and helped the Boilermakers win the 2017 Big Ten Championship. Since then, he has been part of the coaching staff — helping lead the team to Purdue’s first No. 1 ranking and the 2024 NCAA Division I men’s basketball national championship game. 


In this episode you will: 

  • Hear P.J.’s lessons in leadership from his first five years coaching at Purdue, especially what he has learned from head coach Matt Painter and the legendary former head coach Gene Keady 
  • Learn about the unique culture of education, loyalty and family that brought the team to play in a national championship game — and helps recruit and retain some of the best players in the country 
  • Discover P.J.’s focus as offensive coordinator when coaching Purdue-turned-NBA players like Zach Edey and Jaden Ivey, and current stars Braden Smith and Trey Kaufman-Renn 
  • Find out what qualities Purdue looks for when it comes to recruiting young talent 
  • Hear how Purdue navigates name, image, likeness in today’s modern college basketball landscape 
  • Get excited for the 2025-26 men’s basketball season as P.J. shares what he is looking forward to most this season and beyond 
  • Learn what P.J. wants people to know about Coach Painter and this legendary era of Purdue men’s basketball 


    • Don’t miss this episode celebrating the successes of Purdue basketball on and off the court! 

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    This Is PurdueBy Purdue University
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