A new era of Indiana Hoosiers basketball has begun, and it's starting with a bang! The team's exhibition game against Marian University ended with a resounding 107-46 victory, signaling a dramatic shift in playing style under new leadership. Let's dive into what made this game so remarkable.
From the get-go, Coach Darian DeVries's emphasis on three-point shooting, strategic spacing, fluid ball movement, and relentless effort was on full display. The Hoosiers were on fire from beyond the arc, sinking 12 three-pointers in the first half alone. To put that in perspective, last season's highest single-game three-point total was also 12, achieved against Rutgers on January 2nd. The team finished the game with an impressive 50% (15-of-30) three-point shooting percentage. Leading the charge was Tucker DeVries, who went 5-of-7, followed closely by freshman Trent Sisley with a perfect 4-of-4 performance. Conor Enright (2-of-3), Lamar Wilkerson (2-of-6), Tayton Conerway (1-of-2), and Reed Bailey (1-of-1) also contributed to the scoring frenzy.
This offensive explosion led to a blistering 1.49 points per possession and an effective field goal percentage of 69%. The team's teamwork was evident, with 27 assists on 39 made field goals, showcasing excellent off-ball movement. After Conerway's three-pointer at the 9:27 mark in the first half, the Hoosiers were already up 31-4, effectively controlling the game.
Defensively, Indiana maintained its intensity throughout the first half, despite the substantial lead. They forced shot clock violations and effectively pressured the ball, staying in front of their men without committing fouls. This dominance was so complete that, with a 60-point lead in the second half, the team began to give playing time to less experienced players, including Ian Stephens, who subbed in with 9:28 remaining.
Darian DeVries quickly proved why he was considered one of the best portal pickups in the country. He scored Indiana's first 9 points and finished 7-of-9 from the floor, ending with 23 points in just 22 minutes. The West Virginia transfer also dished out a team-high six assists, including two impressive passes to Sisley in the second half. The first was for a three-pointer, and the second resulted in a thunderous dunk and a subsequent free throw after a foul.
Sisley matched DeVries with 23 points of his own, shooting 8-of-10 from the field, including the aforementioned 4-of-4 from beyond the arc. His 23 points came in just 26 minutes, and he continues to impress early in his college basketball career.
Coach Darian DeVries praised Sisley, saying he's, "really excited about the things he’s doing and he continues to grow and get better every day."
Sam Alexis led Indiana on the boards with 10 rebounds and added 13 points (6-of-9). Bailey (4-of-6) and Conerway (4-of-7) each contributed 10 points. Jasai Miles somehow fouled out in just 13 minutes of play. However, the team struggled from the free-throw line, making only 14-of-23 (60.9%).
It's crucial to remember that this was an exhibition game against an NAIA team that finished 11-17 last season. However, it's undeniable that Indiana basketball has undergone a significant transformation in style. But here's where it gets controversial... What does this dramatic shift mean for the upcoming regular season? Will the Hoosiers maintain this level of performance against tougher competition?
What are your thoughts? Do you think this new approach will lead to success? Share your opinions in the comments below!
