Heading into today’s Sweet 16 matchup with Texas, the Purdue basketball team is facing an injury situation that is relatively stable compared to many teams still in the 2026 March Madness competition.
However, there is still one key storyline that could influence how the Boilermakers perform. Here’s everything to know about the health of guard C.J. Cox and other injured players on the Purdue basketball team.
A full schedule for 2026 March Madness Sweet 16 games is available here.
C.J. Cox Injury Status is Purdue’s Biggest Concern
GettyST LOUIS, MISSOURI – MARCH 22: Braden Smith #3, Fletcher Loyer #2 and Oscar Cluff #45 of the Purdue Boilermakers look over teammate C.J. Cox #0 after a play against the Miami Hurricanes during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Enterprise Center on March 22, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
The most important injury update for Purdue basketball revolves around C.J. Cox, who suffered a leg injury during the Boilermakers’ Round of 32 win over Miami FL. Cox exited the game after going down in visible pain following a fast-break play, with an injury that immediately raising concern among teammates and coaches.
Prior to the injury, Cox had been contributing effectively and ultimately scored 11 points in the win that pushed Purdue basketball into the Sweet 16 of the March Madness Tournament. His ability to stretch the floor and provide scoring depth has been valuable, especially in games where Purdue’s primary options face intense defensive pressure.
The good news for Purdue is that early indications have suggested that Cox is expected to at least try to play against Texas. While there hasn’t yet been confirmation that he is at 100 percent capacity, optimism around his availability suggests that the injury is not considered long-term nor season ending for him. However, the key issue isn’t just whether Cox plays but ultimately how effective he can be if he does step out onto the court. Knee and leg injuries can significantly impact lateral quickness on defense, shooting balance – especially from the three-point range, and ability to attack off of the dribble. If Cox is limited in any of these areas, Purdue could lose an important piece of its perimeter rotation and allow for the Texas offense to potentially get through.
Frontcourt Stability Returns as Kaufman-Renn is Ready to Go
GettyST LOUIS, MISSOURI – MARCH 22: Trey Kaufman-Renn #4 of the Purdue Boilermakers drives to the basket against Ernest Udeh Jr. #8 of the Miami Hurricanes in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Enterprise Center on March 22, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
While Cox headlines the injury discussion, Purdue basketball did have another – albeit minor – scare earlier in March involving forward Trey Kaufman-Renn. He dealt with a shoulder issue late in the regular season, but recent updates indicate he is expected to play without restriction against the Texas Longhorns on March 26, 2026.
This is a crucial boost for Purdue as Kaufman-Renn has been one of the team’s most consistent interior presences this season. His rebounding, physicality on the court, and scoring in the paint are key component’s of Purdue’s system.
Purdue will face off against Texas at 7:10 PM ET / 6:10 PM CT / 4:10 PM PT. The game can be streamed on Paramount+, Fubo, Sling, Direct TV, and for free through the March Madness Live app and NCAA.
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