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Purdue AD regrets sharp comment about Indiana during press conference

3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 7, 2026, 10:11 PM

Last updated Aug 7, 2026

Purdue AD regrets sharp comment about Indiana during press conference

Summary

Tommy McClelland, Purdue's new athletic director, expressed regret after criticizing rival Indiana during his introductory press conference on August 5, 2026. He quipped, "If you don't want to win championships, go to Indiana," a statement that quickly backfired. Acknowledging the misstep, McClelland compared it to a poor golf shot and emphasized the importance of constructive rivalry as he aims to foster a competitive atmosphere at Purdue. He humorously noted that he would focus on building championship-winning programs instead of making offhand remarks.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Tommy McClelland criticized Indiana during his introduction as Purdue's AD.
•He expressed regret for his comments on The Pat McAfee Show.
•The comment came after Indiana's recent national championship win.
•McClelland compared his failed remark to a missed golf shot.
•He aims to build competitive programs at Purdue.

Latest Updates

10:11 PMCBS Sports — New Purdue AD Tommy McClelland quickly walks back ill-advised 'championships' dig at Indiana
8:29 PMYahoo Sports — New Purdue AD instantly regretted head-scratching shot at Indiana

What they're saying

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Tommy McClelland, Purdue's new athletic director, said he regretted calling out Indiana during his introductory press conference the moment he said it
— Yahoo Sports