In a compelling Big Ten matchup, the Indiana Hoosiers host the Illinois Fighting Illini on January 27th at 2:00 PM EST, aired on FOX. The Hoosiers, after a tough 91-79 loss against Wisconsin, look to bounce back at home. Meanwhile, Illinois, positioned 3rd in the conference following a 96-91 overtime loss to Northwestern, aims to solidify its standing. This game promises to be a pivotal showdown in the conference race.
The Indiana Hoosiers, with a record of 12-7 and placed 7th in the Big Ten, find themselves in a challenging position. Recent struggles, including a 12-point loss to Wisconsin, highlight a season marred by inconsistency. While the Hoosiers have shown glimpses of brilliance, as seen in victories against Minnesota and Ohio State, they have also faced significant setbacks, like the heavy defeat against Purdue. This inconsistency is a critical factor in its current standing in the conference.
Offensively, Indiana averages 74.2 points per game, ranking 191st nationally. Field goal percentage stands at a respectable 47.9%, the 41st best in the country, indicating a decent shooting efficiency. However, 3-point shooting (34.1%) and free throw percentages (66.4%) suggest areas for improvement, particularly from beyond the arc and at the charity stripe. In terms of rebounding, the Hoosiers average 32.1 rebounds per game, which places them lower in the national rankings.
Defensively, Indiana allows an average of 74.3 points per game, indicating vulnerabilities in defensive schemes. Opponents' field goal percentage is 42.0%, and the 3-point percentage allowed is 33.7%, showing moderate defensive effectiveness. However, the free throw percentage allowed (73.8%) and the number of rebounds conceded (32.4 per game) are areas of concern that need addressing.
Indiana's leading scorer, Malik Reneau, averages 16.5 points per game, while Trey Galloway leads in assists (3.9 per game) and Kel'el Ware in rebounds (9.4 per game). Anthony Leal boasts an impressive 80.0% shooting from the field. Key defensive contributors are Galloway with 1.1 steals and Ware with 1.6 blocks per game. Injury concerns include Ware (ankle) and Leal (undisclosed), both questionable, along with long-term absentees Jordan Rayford, Shaan Burke, and Jakai Newton.