Indiana Basketball: Thomas Bryant’s most important moments with the Hoosiers
By Jordan Maly
Thomas Bryant is entering the NBA Draft so we decided to compile some of the best highlights and memories from his time at Indiana.
In just two short seasons, I felt like the Indiana fan base grew close to Thomas Bryant. The hype surrounding Bryant’s play heading into the 2015 season was enormous. Bryant helped the Hoosiers to a 2015-16 Big Ten regular season title and a perfect record at home.
Thomas Bryant averaged 12.1 PPG, 6.2 RPG, and shot 59.2-percent from the field between 2015-17. In his freshman year, he was named to the Big Ten All-Freshman Team. In both his freshman and sophomore seasons he was named to the All-Conference Third Team in the Big Ten. He has been known for his offensive talent, having a wide variety of range on the floor.
Bryant had the opportunity last season to enter the NBA draft following teammates Yogi Ferrell and Troy Williams. He decided to stay, Ferrell and Williams went undrafted but ended up in the NBA by the end of the season. A roller coaster season for Indiana which ended with a first-round exit in the NIT and nine-year head coach Tom Crean being fired made sense for Bryant to leave.
Some experts are concerned with how Bryant’s game will translate to the NBA. Many believe that his lack of a defensive impact around the rim will be exposed. His skills are too raw on the offensive side of the ball.
More from Indiana Basketball
- Indiana Basketball: Which teams have the Hoosiers never beaten?
- Indiana Basketball: Examining the All-Time Bob Knight Team
- 10 biggest Indiana basketball NBA Draft busts of all time
- Kent State vs. Indiana prediction and odds for NCAA Tournament First Round
- FanDuel and DraftKings Promos Expire Sunday: Bet $25, Get $400 TODAY
Even with some of the weaknesses in Bryant’s game, he will end up being selected in the second round. While that’s an amazing accomplishment, it does not guarantee a contract in the NBA. Bryant will likely end up in the NBA Summer League with the team that drafts him, working for the opportunity to make a roster in the fall. Teams are going to fall in love with his size (6-10, wingspan 7-6) and take the chance to develop his game.
NBA Teams will love the energy Thomas Bryant puts on the floor every night. His excitement and passion for the game are something fans loved while he played for Indiana. Bryant has leadership tools and other great intangible qualities that NBA teams are looking for.
As Thomas Bryant leaves Indiana, we should reflect on some of the best moments of his career as a Hoosier. Here is a list of some of the best and most important highlights from Thomas Bryant’s career at Indiana.