Purdue athletic director regrets remark about Indiana not winning championships
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 7, 2026, 8:31 PM
Last updated Aug 7, 2026
Purdue athletic director Tommy McClelland admitted to a misstep during his introductory press conference on August 6, expressing regret over a comment aimed at Indiana University. His remark, suggesting that individuals who do not wish to win championships should go to Indiana, drew criticism, especially given Indiana's recent success in college football, including a national championship. The comment overshadowed McClelland's main message about building stronger athletic programs at Purdue. He later clarified that the intention was to focus on Purdue's goals, emphasizing the standards set by the men's basketball program under coach Matt Painter. McClelland acknowledged the need to align his messaging with the reality of competition, particularly in light of Purdue's recent football record versus Indiana's achievements.
- •McClelland issued an apology for his controversial remark.
- •Indiana recently won the College Football Playoff national championship.
- •Purdue's athletic programs are expected to focus on winning championships.
- •McClelland aims to divert attention back to Purdue's goals.
- •Purdue's football team has struggled with a 7-win record over three seasons.
- 8:31 PMYahoo Sports — Purdue athletic director admits swipe at Indiana not winning championships was mistake that 'didn't land well'
"'We are going to build programs here that are better at winning championships than I am at one-liners,' Tommy McClelland told Pat McAfee.
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