Here’s a link to all the previous articles in the series:
22. Texas Longhorns
25. Miami Hurricanes
28. BYU Cougars
29. Maryland Terps
31. UCLA Bruins
32. Oregon Ducks
34. Florida Gators
35. Ole Miss
36. USC Trojans
39. Mississippi State Bulldogs
41. Memphis Tigers
42. McNeese Cowboys
45. VCU Rams
46. Dayton Flyers
47. St Mary’s Gaels
49. UCF Knights
52. Clemson Tigers
53. New Mexico Lobos
58. SMU Mustangs
60. Nevada Wolfpack
61. TCU Horned Frogs
63. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
65. Syracuse Orange
68. Iowa Hawkeyes
70. Butler Bulldogs
71. Princeton Tigers
74. Oklahoma Sooners
75. West Virginia Mountaineers
76. Georgia Bulldogs
77. UAB Blazers
80. Missouri Tigers
Here’s where our analysts ranked the Hoosiers:
| Cody | Kam | Maxwell | Steven |
| 20 | 32 | 26 | 20 |
Indiana Men’s Basketball: 2022-2023 Season Overview and the Legacy of Mike Woodson
Mike Woodson’s Impact
Mike Woodson’s return to Indiana as head coach in 2021 reignited excitement around the storied program. Woodson, an Indiana alumnus, brought decades of NBA experience and a clear vision for restoring the Hoosiers to national prominence. His coaching tenure has focused on instilling a defensive mindset and developing versatile offensive strategies, much like his coaching stints in the NBA. Coming into the 2022-2023 season, Woodson had the program trending upward, with the Hoosiers making their first NCAA Tournament appearance in six years during the 2021-2022 campaign.
Indiana’s expectations were high entering the 2022-2023 season as Woodson continued to build on his solid foundation. With a blend of experienced players and talented newcomers, the Hoosiers were positioned to contend for a Big Ten title and make a deeper run in the NCAA Tournament.
2022-2023 Season Recap
Indiana came into the season with significant momentum and the return of key players, most notably Trayce Jackson-Davis, a dominant forward and All-American candidate. Alongside Jackson-Davis, veterans like Race Thompson and Xavier Johnson gave Indiana a solid core to build around. The Hoosiers were ranked in the top 15 of the preseason polls and projected to be among the Big Ten’s elite teams.
The season started strong, with the Hoosiers notching notable non-conference wins over North Carolina and Xavier, propelling them to a 7-0 start. However, injuries, particularly to Xavier Johnson, and inconsistent play plagued the team at times. Despite these challenges, Indiana found its footing in the Big Ten, finishing the regular season with a 22-11 record and securing the third seed in the Big Ten Tournament.
One of the season’s highlights was the continued development of Jackson-Davis, who averaged 20.9 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks per game. He was the centerpiece of Indiana’s offense and one of the most versatile big men in the country. Indiana’s balanced attack also benefited from the emergence of freshman Jalen Hood-Schifino, whose dynamic playmaking and scoring ability (13.5 points per game) helped the Hoosiers overcome offensive lulls.
In the Big Ten Tournament, Indiana reached the semifinals before falling to eventual champion Purdue in a closely contested game. As a No. 4 seed in the NCAA Tournament, Indiana made it to the second round, defeating Kent State before falling to Miami in a tough matchup. Despite the disappointment of not advancing further, Indiana finished the season with a solid 23-12 record, continuing to build momentum under Woodson’s leadership.
Offensive Philosophy
Indiana’s offense in the 2022-2023 season was centered around the inside-out game, with Trayce Jackson-Davis anchoring the team’s attack. His ability to score in the post, pass out of double teams, and create opportunities for others made him a unique weapon. The Hoosiers were deliberate in their approach, often running their offense through Jackson-Davis, allowing him to either finish in the paint or kick it out to shooters like Miller Kopp.
Jalen Hood-Schifino gave Indiana a much-needed perimeter presence, scoring 13.5 points per game and showing the ability to create off the dribble. Indiana’s offensive efficiency ranked among the top 40 nationally, averaging 74.7 points per game. While not known for its three-point shooting (33% as a team), Indiana’s interior scoring and transition offense were strengths throughout the season.
Defensive Philosophy
Mike Woodson emphasized defense from day one, and the 2022-2023 Hoosiers were no different. Ranked 24th nationally in defensive efficiency, Indiana relied on aggressive man-to-man defense and timely shot-blocking from Jackson-Davis to stifle opponents. The Hoosiers allowed just 67.7 points per game, with opponents shooting only 41.3% from the field against them.
Indiana’s defense thrived on physicality, especially in the paint, where Jackson-Davis and Race Thompson formed a formidable frontcourt duo. Hood-Schifino’s perimeter defense, combined with the leadership of Xavier Johnson (before his injury), helped Indiana limit opposing guards. The team’s ability to force turnovers and contest shots was crucial to their success, particularly during Big Ten play.
Key Players
- Trayce Jackson-Davis: The undisputed team leader, Jackson-Davis, was a dominant force on both ends of the court. His scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking earned him All-American honors, and he solidified his legacy as one of Indiana’s all-time greats.
- Jalen Hood-Schifino: The freshman guard had a breakout season, emerging as a reliable scorer and playmaker. His ability to handle pressure and contribute in key moments made him crucial to Indiana’s success.
- Race Thompson: The veteran forward provided toughness and leadership, particularly on the defensive end. Thompson’s rebounding and interior defense were critical to Indiana’s identity.
- Xavier Johnson: Though his season was cut short by injury, Johnson’s contributions as a floor general and defender were essential to Indiana’s early success. His absence was felt, particularly in late-game situations.
Looking Ahead: The 2023-2024 Season and Beyond
As Indiana looks ahead to the 2023-2024 season, the program is both excited and optimistic. With Trayce Jackson-Davis’s departure, the Hoosiers will rely on a new group of leaders, including Jalen Hood-Schifino and several talented incoming recruits. Coach Mike Woodson has recruited well, bringing in top prospects like Mackenzie Mgbako, a 5-star forward, and Gabe Cupps, a highly-touted guard, to add depth and athleticism to the roster.
Indiana’s success will hinge on the development of these younger players and the contributions of returning veterans like Race Thompson and Xavier Johnson (should he return for a medical redshirt season). The Hoosiers are expected to remain competitive in the Big Ten and have aspirations of making another NCAA Tournament run.
With Mike Woodson at the helm, Indiana is once again on a path toward national relevance. His emphasis on defense, player development, and toughness resonates with the program’s rich history. He looks to return Indiana to its glory days while building a foundation for sustained success.
Indiana Men’s Basketball: 2023-2024 Season Review
Expectations vs. Reality
The 2023-2024 season was a transition and opportunity for Indiana Men’s Basketball. With the departure of All-American forward Trayce Jackson-Davis and the loss of standout freshman Jalen Hood-Schifino to the NBA Draft, the Hoosiers entered the season looking to establish a new identity. Head coach Mike Woodson, now in his third year, continued to build on the foundation of defensive toughness and balanced offense that he has emphasized since he arrived in Bloomington.
Entering the season, the Hoosiers were projected to finish in the upper half of the Big Ten, thanks to a talented recruiting class headlined by 5-star forward Mackenzie Mgbako, landing a former 5-star recruit in Kel’el Ware, and the return of key veteran players Xavier Johnson and Trey Galloway. With a mix of youth and experience, Indiana had its sights set on another NCAA Tournament appearance and competing for a top spot in the Big Ten.
Key Storylines of the 2023-2024 Season
Kel’el Ware’s Breakout Season
After transferring from Oregon, Kel’el Ware quickly established himself as a key player for Indiana during the 2023-2024 season. Ware, a former 5-star recruit and McDonald’s All-American arrived in Bloomington with immense potential, and under Mike Woodson’s coaching, he began to live up to the high expectations. Standing 7-foot-0, Ware’s combination of size, athleticism, and skill made him a versatile force on both ends of the floor. Defensively, Ware anchored Indiana’s frontcourt with his elite shot-blocking and rim protection, altering countless shots in the paint and becoming one of the top shot-blockers in the Big Ten. His defensive presence allowed Indiana to control the glass and neutralize opposing big men, forcing teams to adjust their offensive game plans.
The Emergence of Mackenzie Mgbako
As expected, Mackenzie Mgbako quickly became a focal point of Indiana’s offense. The talented freshman forward displayed his ability to score from all areas of the court, averaging over 15 points per game. Mgbako’s length and athleticism also made him a key contributor on the defensive end, often guarding multiple positions. His performance solidified his status as one of the top freshmen in the Big Ten, and he was frequently discussed as a potential NBA lottery pick by season’s end.
Xavier Johnson’s Leadership and Comeback
After suffering a season-ending injury the previous year, Xavier Johnson returned as the team’s senior leader. His steady presence at the point guard position was crucial, especially in late-game situations where his poise and experience helped the Hoosiers win several close contests. Johnson’s ability to push the tempo and facilitate for his teammates allowed Indiana’s offense to run smoothly. Although he missed a few games due to minor injuries, Johnson’s leadership was invaluable throughout the season.
The Development of Malik Reneau
Sophomore forward Malik Reneau made significant strides in his second season with the Hoosiers. After a freshman campaign showing flashes of potential, Reneau stepped into a much more substantial role in 2023-2024. He averaged around 12 points and eight rebounds per game, providing a solid inside presence alongside Mgbako. Reneau’s improvement in both his post moves and defensive awareness helped Indiana remain competitive in the paint against the physical frontcourts of the Big Ten.
Bench Depth and Contributions
Indiana’s depth was one of its key strengths throughout the season. Freshman guard Gabe Cupps brought high energy off the bench, showing his potential as a floor general with his excellent basketball IQ and defensive intensity. Anthony Walker, a transfer from Miami, also provided valuable minutes as a versatile forward who could score, rebound, and defend multiple positions. Jakai Newton added athleticism and defense on the perimeter, giving Woodson the flexibility to use different lineups based on matchups.
Offensive Highlights
With Jackson-Davis’s departure, Indiana’s offensive system became more balanced. Instead of relying on a dominant inside presence, the Hoosiers spread the scoring load across multiple players. Mackenzie Mgbako and Kel’el Ware led the team in scoring, with Malik Reneau and Trey Galloway consistently chipping in.
The Hoosiers improved their three-point shooting compared to previous seasons, thanks partly to contributions from Mgbako and Cupps, who both shot at a solid clip from beyond the arc. Indiana also excelled in transition, where Johnson’s speed and court vision allowed them to capitalize on fast-break opportunities.
However, Indiana’s half-court offense sometimes faced challenges, particularly against teams that played zone defense. The team’s struggles to consistently generate open looks from the perimeter led to some inconsistent stretches in Big Ten play.
Defensive Highlights
Defense remained the cornerstone of Indiana’s identity under Mike Woodson. The Hoosiers were among the top teams in the Big Ten in defensive efficiency, allowing opponents to score just under 68 points per game. Xavier Johnson was the catalyst for Indiana’s perimeter defense, using his quickness and tenacity to pressure opposing guards. Trey Galloway and Jakai Newton provided valuable contributions on the wing, helping to limit some of the top-scoring threats in the conference.
Malik Reneau and Kel’el Ware anchored the defense in the paint, with Ware emerging as one of the better shot-blockers in the conference. Indiana’s ability to defend without fouling improved throughout the season as the team became more disciplined in its approach.
Big Ten and Postseason Performance
Indiana finished the regular season with a 19-14 record (10-10 in the Big Ten), securing the 6th seed in the conference. The Hoosiers had several impressive wins, including victories over ranked opponents such as Ohio State and Michigan State. However, inconsistency was a recurring issue, especially in road games where they struggled to close out contests against tough Big Ten competition.
In the Big Ten Tournament, Indiana advanced to the second round before being eliminated by Nebraska. While the early exit was disappointing, it was evident that Indiana had laid a solid foundation for future success under head coach Mike Woodson.
2024-2025 Season Outlook
As the Hoosiers prepare for the upcoming season, they will return five key players, including their second-leading scorer Malik Reneau, versatile forward Mackenzie Mgbako, veteran guard Trey Galloway, and lethal perimeter shooter Gabe Cupps. They’ve also bolstered their roster with a mix of highly touted recruits and talented transfers. Among the newcomers is 5-star recruit Bryson Tucker, along with notable transfers: guard Myles Rice (Washington State), who averaged 14.8 PPG and 3.8 APG, guard Kanaan Carlyle (Stanford) with 11.5 PPG and 2.7 APG, veteran center Oumar Ballo (Arizona), who contributed 12.9 PPG and 10.1 RPG, and forward Luke Goode (Illinois), who averaged 5.7 PPG while shooting 38.9% from beyond the arc.
This year’s roster is filled with high-production players, generating optimism for another successful season. With 55% of their minutes and 80.7% of their scoring returning from last season, there will be plenty of opportunities for the new recruits and transfers to step up and make their mark. The Hoosiers are aiming to return to national relevancy and make a strong push in March.
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