In one of the most irrelevant games I have ever watched, Indiana showed off its depth and set itself up for what could be one of the most memorable weeks in program history.
In one of the rare occasions that Indiana chose not to play down to its opponent, we saw a team that looked focused and remarkably improved from the one we saw at the beginning of the year.
Of course in typical Indiana fashion, it didn’t start out like that.
In what can only really be described as a game of two halves, Indiana ended the first 20 minutes of basketball down 28-27. Both teams really lacked quality, as it appeared that Indiana was attempting to adjust to playing without Robert Johnson. Not that it was difficult without him; the Hoosiers honestly just seemed to take time figuring out the logistics of who was going to do what, and where everyone was supposed to be on the court.
In spurts we saw Yogi Ferrell take control of plays and keep the team in the game, but the first half was really all about discovering Indiana’s identity without RoJo.
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Thomas Bryant struggled to get going, no one could get to the line, and someone needed to be able to stop Jalen Coleman-Lands who had 11 points at half.
Fast forward to the second half and all of those adjustments were not only made, but like, super made.
Indiana began knocking down shots left and right, bearing down on defense, and establishing a presence down low.
IU quite simply proved to be the better team, and that’s not something an Indiana basketball fan is normally familiar with. With the pressure mounting for Indiana’s last two games of the season, most fans would not have been surprised if Indiana got caught looking ahead.
Something seems different with this team’s mentality as of late, and there are certainly more than a few things to appreciate as a result of that mentality.
Indiana’s depth is unquestionable at this point
Without Robert Johnson, Indiana was left with only two guys that could truly handle the basketball.
AND NO TROY WILLIAMS I AM NOT REFERRING TO YOU!!!
Even without him in the lineup, Indiana still appeared to be as strong as ever. As one man steps down, another man simply steps up with this team. Collin Hartman, OG Anunoby, and Nick Ziesloft all played pivital roles in last night’s matchup. This unprecedented ability to roll out a wide array of players and still be successful can only speak to the coaching of Tom Crean and the value of Yogi Ferrell.
Tom Crean has found a way to get his whole team to buy in, just like Teri Moren has with Indiana’s Women’s team, and that has allowed various individuals to play a crucial role.
Yogi Ferrell also has the ability to make a plant look good at basketball. He makes his whole team better and it makes me think that if my 5’4″ frame was standing next to him on the court, that I might be able to gain the courage to try dunking.
This unquestionable depth is something that has provided confidence for IU fans as the team enters the final stretch before tournament play.
OG Anunoby can guard anybody
OG’s ability to lockdown an opponent’s best player has been crucial so far this season. Many had little expectations for Anunoby coming into this season, but his role has been more important than any other.
Today he shut down 6-6 guard Malcolm Hill and it almost seemed like a given that he would.
Thomas Bryant just continues to get better
As his confidence continues to grow, this basketball team will continue to reap the benefits. Last night
he continued to impose his strength and display his versatility from the outside.
When will Harrison Niego break out?
This is the greatest question surrounding this basketball team. Tonight was supposed to be his night! I’m ready for Niego-sanity, but it’s not here yet. Plan on a nice triple-double against Iowa.