Indiana Basketball: 3 Takeaways from Gritty win against Ohio State

Malik Reneau and Xavier Johnson shine for Indiana Basketball in comeback win at home in Bloomington.
Indiana's Malik Reneau (5) shoots over Ohio State's Felix Okpara (34) during the first half of the
Indiana's Malik Reneau (5) shoots over Ohio State's Felix Okpara (34) during the first half of the / Rich Janzaruk/Herald-Times / USA TODAY
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Indiana Basketball
Indiana's Malik Reneau (5) hugs Trey Galloway (32) and Xavier Johnson (0) during the second half of / Rich Janzaruk/Herald-Times / USA TODAY

Is Malik Reneau IU's Go-To Guy?

The short answer to this question is yes. Reneau is averaging 24 points in his last four games. He was the catalyst for both second-half runs against Ohio State. Indiana did an outstanding job of getting him the basketball where he wanted to receive the pass.

Another wrinkle Reneau showed was the ability to turn baseline and get his shot when Ohio State clogged the middle and deny the short hook shot. The most important aspect of being a go-to guy is asking for and expecting the ball.

Reneau did both in this game, especially in the second half. There was some indication that Kel'el Ware would be the center of the offense, but his game still needs refining, and he's more of a defensive rim protector. That's not to say that Ware isn't a force on offense. He's seven feet tall and long.

He hasn't shown the offensive variety and wears down because of his defensive energy. Also, Reneau has developed a consistent outside game. As Reneau develops offensively, he will create opportunities for Ware, which is a scary thought for opponents.