Indiana Basketball: 3 takeaways from blowout win vs Gannon

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BLOOMINGTON, INDIANA – FEBRUARY 19: Justin Smith #3 of the Indiana Hoosiers shoots the ball against the Purdue Boilermakers at Assembly Hall on February 19, 2019 in Bloomington, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

3. Justin Smith Reminds Everyone He Can Be X-Factor

Yes, this was against a DII opponent, but Justin Smith reminded Indiana fans what he could be like this season.

An up-and-down career in his first two seasons, Smith has tried to do more than what he should at times, ultimately hurting the team more than helping. On Tuesday night however, Smith played under control and within himself and led the Hoosiers with 18 points.

Not only was he efficient, 5-for-5 from the field, but he also stayed around the rim, something that makes him so much more valuable. Often times floating around the three-point line last year, Smith’s athleticism makes him so much more effective and much more of an asset to this Indiana team.

As a small-ball four, or a bigger three, Smith can create so many mismatches with his athletic skillset, as long as he plays to his strengths. One of those is being a workhorse on the glass and being able to convert at the free-throw line. Against Gannon, Smith went 8-for-9 from the line, getting multiple easy points on the night.

dark. Next. November Schedule Sets Hoosiers Up For Great Start

With Indiana’s depth in the front court, being able to play a couple of different positions will increase his role and ability to help Miller and Co. all throughout the year.

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