Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Assembly Call IU Basketball Podcast and Postgame Show

Indiana closed exhibition play with a 79-74 win over Western Kentucky, but it took a second-half spark from the reserves to finish the job.

Coach Tonsoni, Coach Moats, and Andy Bottoms break down how Bryce Lindsay, Sam Alexis, and IU’s freshmen helped erase an eight-point deficit and turn a sloppy performance into a comeback victory. They discuss Lindsay’s emergence as a playmaker, Alexis’ steady contributions, and what Darian DeVries’ lineup decisions revealed about Indiana’s depth.

Plus: the turnovers, shooting struggles, and defensive breakdowns that need attention before the regular season, along with Game Ball and Hoosier Hustle honors and the biggest questions remaining after a 3-0 exhibition slate.

Indiana gave fans plenty of reasons for optimism in a 76–58 exhibition win over North Carolina, combining Bryce Lindsay’s hot shooting with a commanding 53–31 rebounding advantage and an encouraging defensive effort.

Coach Brian Tonsoni, Jerod Morris, and Ryan Phillips break down what stood out in the Hoosiers’ second exhibition victory—and why this roster’s depth, athleticism, and variety on offense suggest more ways to win this season.

Among the topics discussed:

• A different tone on the glass: Relentless offensive rebounding supplied the Banner Moment and helped Indiana finish with a 17–7 advantage in second-chance points.

• More answers in the backcourt: Lindsay’s scoring, Darren Harris’s shooting, Burton’s creation, and Mustaf’s physical drives give the Hoosiers multiple options when an opponent takes something away.

• Winning beyond the scoring column: Aiden Sherrell received praise for his rebounding, defensive activity, and willingness to contribute without a big scoring night. Samet Yigitoglu’s size and Sam Alexis’s energy also drew praise.

• Encouraging defensive progress: Better ball pressure, closeouts, and rotations helped Indiana hold North Carolina below 60 points.

• Room to improve: Turnovers, missed finishes, baseline inbound execution, and developing dependable depth remain priorities for Darian DeVries’s team.

The crew also discusses how to balance building chemistry with giving younger players exhibition minutes, then closes with an IU football conversation about the Ohio State loss, offensive concerns, and the upcoming trip to Michigan.

Plus: Game Balls, the Hoosier Hustle Award, lingering questions, and a look ahead to the Western Kentucky exhibition in Evansville.

Indiana opened its exhibition schedule with a convincing 96-68 win over Butler, giving us plenty of reasons to be encouraged about this year's Hoosiers. Coach Tonsoni breaks down the impressive second-half turnaround, the newcomers who stood out, and what this first look tells us about the team's potential under Darian DeVries.

The Hoosiers led by just three at halftime before taking control with a dominant second-half performance. Coach walks through:

• The defensive adjustments that completely changed the game.

• How Indiana's offensive versatility created problems for Butler.

• Why the rebounding advantage might be one of the most encouraging signs of all.

We got our first real look at Indiana's revamped roster, and several players made strong impressions.

• Markus Burton's aggressive start and the scoring dimension he brings to the backcourt.

• The inside presence of Indiana's big men and the importance of having multiple ways to score.

• Why Trevor Manhertz could become a particularly valuable piece of the rotation.

• The contributions of Jaeden Mustaf, Darren Harris, and a deeper, more athletic supporting cast.

It's only an exhibition, but there are some meaningful takeaways as Indiana prepares for tougher competition. Coach discusses the areas that still need work, including defensive consistency, turnovers, and fouling, while explaining why this roster appears better equipped to compete in the Big Ten.

Plus, we answer listener questions about rotations, team chemistry, and season expectations before handing out our first Game Ball and Hoosier Hustle Award of the season.

Darius Wabbington is an Indiana Hoosier. The five-star 2027 center has committed to Indiana basketball, giving Darian DeVries one of his biggest recruiting wins yet and adding another major piece to IU’s rapidly developing 2027 class.

Galen Clavio is joined by Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips and Mike Wiemuth for an emergency podcast breaking down Wabbington’s commitment, his skill set and why his game fits what DeVries is trying to build. The 6-foot-11 center brings unusual passing and ball-handling ability, developing three-point range, physical size and the versatility to operate both inside and away from the basket.

The crew also looks at Indiana’s 2027 class alongside Chase Branham and Felix Kiehlneker, Wabbington’s NBA potential, how he could be used in DeVries’ offense, and what beating Arizona and Illinois for an elite national recruit says about IU’s recruiting trajectory.

Plus: why Indiana’s roster construction looks increasingly intentional — and how this commitment compares with the program’s history of landing five-star prospects.

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This episode was recorded on Thursday, September 17th.

In this episode of The Assembly Call, Andy Bottoms, Ryan Phillips, and Brian Tonsoni break down Indiana’s newly released Big Ten schedule and debate whether it gives the Hoosiers a favorable path through conference play. They also discuss IU’s newest recruiting commitment and share early impressions of the football team.

The schedule appears manageable early, but the closing stretch is another story. The guys explore:

• Where Indiana has its best opportunity to build momentum

• The road games that may be tougher than they look

• Why playing the Big Ten’s best teams at home matters

• Whether IU can withstand a brutal finish

Also, Ryan offers an initial scouting report on Indiana’s new seven-foot commitment, while the crew considers what the addition says about the program’s recruiting strategy. They also touch on preseason Big Ten projections and strong starts across IU Athletics.

The show closes with early reactions to Indiana football’s 2–0 start, including Josh Hoover’s encouraging play and the questions that remain before conference competition begins.

It’s a great time to be a Hoosier. Brian Tonsoni is joined by Ryan Phillips and Bob Moats to break down Indiana basketball’s newly released non-conference schedule, sort through the latest eligibility questions, and get ready for the defending national champion football Hoosiers to open the 2026 season against North Texas.

• Sam Alexis’ eligibility remains unresolved, sparking a broader discussion about the NCAA, professional contracts, Summer League participation, and where college eligibility rules should ultimately draw the line.
• Victor Oladipo is attempting an NBA comeback, while a new documentary celebrates longtime Voice of the Hoosiers Don Fischer.
• Indiana volleyball earns a huge five-set victory over defending national champion Texas A&M, while IU men’s soccer continues its strong start.

The guys dig into a schedule featuring five power-conference opponents, including neutral-site matchups with Syracuse, Arkansas and Kentucky, plus home dates against UCF and Missouri. Add exhibitions against Butler, North Carolina and Western Kentucky, and IU will have plenty of opportunities to learn about itself before Big Ten play.

• Why the Arkansas-Kentucky back-to-back could provide an early measuring stick.
• How marquee games at Madison Square Garden and Lucas Oil can help Indiana build its NCAA Tournament résumé.
• Why the schedule feels appropriately ambitious for a veteran roster—and why the Big Ten alone can’t be counted on to provide enough quality opportunities.
• The overlooked value of games against teams like Bellarmine and Tennessee Tech, whose styles could give IU useful early-season tests even if they aren’t marquee opponents.
• And what would constitute a successful record in those five biggest non-conference games.

Finally, attention turns to Memorial Stadium as Curt Cignetti and the defending national champions begin another season. Expectations have changed dramatically: IU has reloaded, the entire home schedule is sold out, and simply getting to six wins feels like ancient history.

The guys discuss what to watch against North Texas, why nobody should overreact to the first game, and how football success is changing the entire Bloomington experience—from ticket demand and hotel prices to the atmosphere surrounding every home Saturday.

In this episode of The Assembly Call, Jerod Morris and Ryan Phillips take stock of where Indiana basketball stands in mid-August after the Peru trip, Sam Alexis’ return, and the first real glimpses of this rebuilt roster.

They dig into the reasons for cautious optimism, what this team’s identity could eventually become, and which questions still need to be answered before the games start counting.

• Why Sam Alexis’ return may matter more than a typical late-offseason roster addition—and what it changes about Indiana’s frontcourt options.
• What Bart Torvik’s early projections say about Indiana and a Big Ten that already looks brutally deep.
• The biggest lesson from Peru wasn’t any individual stat line, but what the roster suggested about how these pieces might fit together.
• What could define Indiana’s identity on both ends of the floor—and why this roster may offer Darren DeVries more ways to attack than he had a year ago.
• Which freshmen have raised expectations, which veterans may be getting overlooked, and how much we should really trust anything we see in August.
• A closer look at whether Indiana’s supposed depth is actually different this time—and why developing the back end of the rotation early could matter later.
• Does IU football’s incredible success take pressure off the basketball program… or quietly raise the standard for what fans will tolerate?

Jerod and Ryan also work through listener questions about pace, rotations, roster fit, player development, and how this group compares with some of the recent Indiana teams that looked promising on paper.

And with football season almost here, the show closes with some well-earned IU football talk, including what Ryan trusts most about the defending champs—and the biggest question he still has entering the season.

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Indiana 120, Virgin Islands 63

Indiana's summer tour rolled on with another lopsided win, but the score wasn't what had the Assembly Call crew talking afterward. Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, and Bob Moats discuss a handful of standout performances, some intriguing lineup combinations, and why this team continues to look a little different from what Hoosier fans have grown accustomed to in recent years.

It's still July, and everyone is appropriately cautious—but there were enough flashes in this one to make for another entertaining postgame conversation.

• Which Hoosier stole the spotlight with a performance nobody saw coming.
• Why the roster's overall depth continues to stand out, regardless of the opponent.
• Early signs of what Darren DeVries wants Indiana basketball to look like on the offensive end.
• The newcomers and freshmen generating the most buzz through the first few games.
• A discussion about the players who could quietly become fan favorites this season.
• Areas where the Hoosiers still have plenty of work to do before November arrives.
• One unexpected eligibility question that sparked an interesting conversation late in the show.

With tougher competition still ahead, the guys resist the urge to overreact while acknowledging that this team has given fans plenty to be excited about. Summer basketball may not tell the whole story, but it's certainly making the wait for the regular season a little easier.

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Indiana's summer debut gave fans their first extended look at Darren DeVries' latest roster build, and there was plenty to discuss after Team USA's exhibition win over Team Canada.

Coach Tonsoni, Bob Moats, and special guest Andrew Garrison break down the newcomers, the freshmen, and the early signs of what this team could become—with the usual reminder that it's still only July.

• Why Marcus Burton immediately became a major topic of conversation.
• The freshmen who had Assembly Hall buzzing—and why fans are already taking notice.
• Early impressions of Indiana's size, athleticism, and roster construction.
• How Darren DeVries appears to be shaping the team's offensive identity.
• Which players flashed intriguing potential on both ends of the floor.
• Questions that still remain as the team continues building chemistry.
• What Indiana's upcoming trip to Peru could reveal about the Hoosiers moving forward.

In this episode of The Assembly Call, the crew checks in from the quiet part of the offseason—but with plenty to discuss. From the first glimpses of summer workouts to Indiana's exhibition schedule and the ongoing debate around NCAA Tournament expansion, there's no shortage of reasons to start getting excited for basketball again.

The Banner Moment: Summer Workouts Are Here

For the first time, we're getting a peek behind the curtain at this completely rebuilt roster.

• Early practice observations from those in attendance
• Why Coach Tonsoni is suddenly paying attention to practice videos
• What stood out from the first few days in Bloomington
• Looking ahead to Peru and why those games could be so valuable

Breaking Down the New-Look Roster

The conversation digs into what little we've seen—and what it might tell us.

• Why Indiana's roster construction feels more intentional this time around
• The importance of having multiple ways to create spacing offensively
• Which newcomers could quietly become the biggest difference-makers
• A fun exercise: if you're scouting Indiana, who do you try to stop first?

The discussion also explores why this team may simply have more answers than recent IU squads when defenses take away the first option.

Scheduling, Expansion, and the Bigger Picture

The show wraps with a look beyond the roster.

• Thoughts on playing marquee games in Indianapolis versus Assembly Hall
• Whether expanding the NCAA Tournament to 76 teams actually improves the event
• How a larger field could change scheduling philosophy across college basketball
• A few final reflections on the ever-changing landscape of the sport

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The crew opens with something Indiana fans haven’t had in a while during May: actual basketball stuff to look forward to.

Between the Peru trip, summer practices, and a roster that finally looks balanced on paper, there’s a real sense of momentum around the program.

• Why the Peru trip could end up being way more important than just “extra games”
• The hidden value of IU adding “practice body” depth pieces late in the portal cycle
• How Darian DeVries may have quietly overachieved in the transfer portal
• Why this roster feels fundamentally different from some recent IU teams
• The discussion turns into a surprisingly optimistic conversation about fit, shooting, and actual roster construction

There’s also some fun reflection on the current state of IU athletics overall — from football momentum to the feeling that Indiana is finally showing up in national conversations for positive reasons again.

And yes… the guys briefly spiral into memories of the 1992 Final Four loss to Duke, because some wounds apparently never heal.

Segment 2: The Big Ten Schedule Is Out… and IU Might’ve Actually Caught a Break

The conference opponents are officially set, and the panel wastes no time dissecting what’s good, what’s dangerous, and what could become sneaky problem spots.

A few major themes emerge quickly:

• Not having to visit Illinois, Michigan, and Michigan State feels enormous
• Why this schedule may set up well for a first-year roster still learning how to play together
• The road games everyone says are “winnable”… but somehow never feel comfortable
• An unfortunate amount of skepticism about beating Northwestern despite their roster turnover
• Wisconsin in Madison somehow turns into its own emotional subplot

The conversation eventually drifts into way-too-early Big Ten record predictions, and suddenly the panel is casually throwing around numbers that would represent Indiana’s best conference season in years.

Some restraint is attempted. It does not last long.

Segment 3: NCAA Tournament Expansion, College Basketball Chaos, and Coach Wants Golf Partners

The final segment tackles the looming NCAA Tournament expansion debate, and the conversation gets surprisingly thoughtful about what the tournament should actually represent.

Topics include:

• Why expanding the field feels inevitable whether fans like it or not
• The biggest issue with the current “First Four” setup
• A genuinely interesting idea for helping mid-major teams and preserving tournament magic
• Why the NCAA still doesn’t know how to properly treat smaller schools that earn tournament bids
• The guys accidentally workshop better tournament formats than the NCAA itself

And in true offseason fashion, the episode closes with:

• Indy 500 talk
• summer basketball plans
• podcast updates
• retirement excitement
• and Coach Tonsoni openly recruiting Assembly Call listeners to play golf with him around Indiana

Which honestly feels exactly right for a mid-May IU basketball show.

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In this episode of The Assembly Call, we react to Indiana’s massive transfer portal haul and what it might mean for year two under Darian DeVries. After a disappointing season, the tone has shifted quickly—and the conversation wrestles with how much of this excitement is justified versus how much still needs to be proven on the court.

Segment 1: Inside Indiana’s Portal Haul

The discussion centers on just how dramatic this roster overhaul has been—and why it feels different from past offseasons.

• Why this group appears more balanced than recent Indiana teams
• How the pieces might actually fit together in a modern offense
• The significance of adding a true lead guard and legit size up front
• A surprise commitment during the show that adds another wrinkle
• Whether this is finally a roster without an obvious fatal flaw

Segment 2: What It Means (and What’s Still Missing)

The excitement is real—but so are the questions.

• How much of last year’s struggles were roster vs. coaching
• Why this offseason suggests the staff may have learned from year one
• The importance of continuity and multi-year players
• What positions still need to be addressed before the roster is complete
• The big unknown: how it all comes together once games actually start

Bottoms line:

There’s real momentum—and a real plan. But this episode makes it clear: April wins don’t mean much unless they translate to November.

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Indiana fell to Northwestern 74–61 in the Big Ten Tournament, dropping to 18–14 and surely ending any remaining hopes of an NCAA tournament bid.

The Hoosiers built an early 10-point lead and looked sharp offensively before a late first-half collapse and second-half defensive breakdown allowed Northwestern to seize control and pull away.

Andy Bottoms, Coach Tonsoni, Jerod Morris, and Ryan Phillips break down the season-ending loss and what it revealed about Indiana’s roster and program direction:

• The strong opening stretch where Tucker DeVries, Lamar Wilkerson, and Sam Alexis fueled an early double-digit Indiana lead before everything unraveled
• The brutal offensive collapse late in the first half that flipped momentum and set the tone for the rest of the game
• Northwestern’s Nick Martinelli dominating the second half and why Indiana never found a defensive answer for him
• The recurring defensive strategy questions — especially switching decisions that repeatedly created favorable matchups for Northwestern
• Frustration with Indiana’s shot selection and empty possessions during a pivotal second-half stretch
• A bigger-picture discussion of the offseason ahead and why portal additions will define the next phase of Darian DeVries’ rebuild

Plus, as always: the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award.

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Indiana fell to Ohio State 91–78 in Columbus in the regular-season finale, dropping to 18–13 overall and 9–11 in Big Ten play and effectively ending their at-large NCAA tournament hopes.

The Hoosiers kept the game competitive early but were undone by Ohio State’s hot perimeter shooting and Indiana’s inability to match the Buckeyes’ physicality and shot creation for long stretches.

Jerod Morris, Ryan Phillips, Mike Wiemuth, and Bob Moats break down the disappointing road loss and what it says about Indiana’s roster and future:

• Ohio State’s blistering three-point shooting that repeatedly stretched Indiana’s defense beyond its limits
• The physical mismatch that showed up in rebounding battles, defensive rotations, and late-game fouling
• Lamar Wilkerson’s aggressive play — including one costly late decision — that captured both his importance and the burden he carried all season
• Why Indiana’s roster construction left them without enough playmakers or shot creators to keep up with elite Big Ten teams
• The defensive dilemma of trying to contain Bruce Thornton while Ohio State’s other weapons punished every adjustment
• Jerod’s sobering “banner moment” reflection on what the end of the regular season means for the program’s immediate future
• The looming offseason and why roster upgrades are now the clearest path forward for Darian DeVries’ system

Plus, as always: the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award.

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Indiana rolled past Minnesota 77–47 to improve to 18–12 overall and 9–10 in Big Ten play, delivering one of the team’s most complete performances of the season at exactly the moment it was needed most.

After losing four straight and watching their NCAA tournament hopes slip, the Hoosiers responded with a dominant defensive effort, balanced scoring, and a decisive closing run late in the first half that effectively ended the game early.

Jerod Morris, Andy Bottoms, and Brian Tonsoni break down the emphatic win and what it means heading into a crucial road test at Ohio State:

• The decisive late-first-half burst that turned a somewhat close game into a comfortable Indiana lead
• Sam Alexis’ dominant interior presence that earned him the night’s game ball
• Tucker DeVries’ all-around stat line and leadership performance that showcased how valuable his versatility can be
• Indiana’s suffocating defensive performance that held Minnesota to just 47 points and one of its worst offensive nights of the season
• The massive edge in points off turnovers that turned defensive stops into easy scoring opportunities
• Why this balanced team effort — on both ends of the floor — looked like the Indiana team fans had been hoping to see for weeks
• What the win means for Indiana’s fading NCAA tournament hopes with a massive bubble matchup looming against Ohio State

Plus, the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award.

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Indiana dropped its fourth straight game, falling 77–64 to Michigan State as the Hoosiers’ late-season slide continued and their NCAA tournament hopes faded further.

Despite sustained effort and moments of competitiveness, Indiana again struggled to overcome talent gaps, rebounding issues, and offensive limitations against a top-tier Big Ten opponent.

Coach Tonsoni and Ryan Phillips break down another frustrating loss and what it says about Indiana’s present — and future:

• How Indiana’s defensive adjustment to a matchup zone briefly slowed Michigan State but couldn’t overcome sustained shooting efficiency
• The momentum-killing offensive rebounds that repeatedly erased Indiana runs
• Why the Hoosiers’ offense stalled without a consistent downhill creator to put defenses in rotation
• The growing consensus that effort isn’t the issue — roster talent and fit are
• Tucker DeVries’ all-around performance and leadership amid difficult offensive circumstances
• The broader impact of Indiana’s four-game skid on postseason hopes and program trajectory
• Why the upcoming offseason — especially portal additions — now looms as the program’s most important stretch

Plus, key statistical takeaways, game ball and Hoosier Hustle Award selections, and a discussion of how Indiana should approach the final games with pride and long-term perspective in mind.

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Indiana suffered a devastating 72–68 home loss to Northwestern, falling to 17–11 overall and 8–9 in Big Ten play after squandering a strong first half and enduring another prolonged offensive drought.

The Hoosiers built an early lead behind hot shooting but went cold late, allowing a struggling Northwestern team to seize control and dramatically complicate Indiana’s NCAA tournament outlook.

Andy, Ryan, and Coach Tonsoni break down a frustrating defeat that exposed familiar issues on both ends of the floor:

• How Indiana’s red-hot start — fueled by Lamar Wilkerson’s early shooting — unraveled into a second-half scoring drought that decided the game
• Why the offense stalled into perimeter passing and late-clock jumpers during a decisive 10-minute stretch without a field goal
• The puzzling rotation decisions surrounding Tayton Conerway despite his clear impact attacking the rim
• Defensive breakdowns and matchup choices that allowed Northwestern’s Nick Martinelli to take over the second half
• The rebounding and physicality gaps that turned a struggling opponent into the more aggressive team
• Missed late foul calls that loomed large — while also highlighting why Indiana never should have been in that position
• What this loss means for Indiana’s tournament chances with urgency now surrounding the final stretch of the season

Plus, the Hall of a Moment, game balls, Hoosier Hustle Award, and a candid discussion of where Indiana stands heading into a critical matchup with Michigan State.

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Indiana fell to Purdue 93-64 in West Lafayette, dropping to 17-10 overall and 8-8 in Big Ten play after a game the Boilermakers controlled from the opening minutes.

What began as a tough road test quickly turned into a lopsided rivalry loss, as Indiana struggled to generate offense, defend consistently, or match Purdue’s physicality for nearly the entire 40 minutes.

Jerod, Andy, and Galen break down a disappointing performance and what it reveals about Indiana’s ceiling heading into the final stretch of the season:

• Tayton Conerway’s aggressive driving and playmaking performance that stood out as one of the few bright spots in an otherwise flat offensive night
• Why Indiana’s defensive effort — including zero steals and just one offensive rebound — raised deeper concerns about toughness and intensity against elite competition
• How Purdue’s defensive game plan neutralized Indiana’s perimeter threats and forced the Hoosiers into stagnant, uncomfortable offensive possessions
• The troubling trend of Indiana’s defensive decline since January and what the underlying numbers reveal about effort versus schematic issues
• Nick Dorn’s recent struggles on both ends and the difficult roster dilemma created when a streaky shooter stops producing offensively
• Tucker DeVries’ surprisingly low shot volume and whether Indiana can succeed when one of its primary scorers becomes more facilitator than aggressor
• What consecutive blowout road losses mean for Indiana’s NCAA tournament outlook and the urgency facing the team in upcoming must-win games

Plus, as always: the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award.

ALERT: And some NSFW musical fun at the very end. (If you wouldn't be comfortable with your kids listening to an unedited Bob Knight locker room speech, then don't them listen to the very end.)

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Indiana fell to Illinois 71-51 in Champaign in a game that exposed the Hoosiers' ceiling against elite Big Ten competition.

After keeping it close for the opening 10 minutes, Illinois pulled away behind their size, depth, and athleticism while Indiana shot just 25% from three-point range and got dominated on the glass (giving up 15 offensive rebounds).

Despite Lamar Wilkerson's 21 points and a defensive effort that held Illinois under their season averages, the Hoosiers simply didn't have enough firepower to compete for 40 minutes, dropping to 17-9 overall and 8-7 in Big Ten play.

Jerod Morris and Coach Brian Tonsoni (live from State Farm Center) break down the disappointing but revealing loss:

• How a critical stretch midway through the first half—Conor Enright's bad turnover followed by Tucker DeVries's questionable second foul—triggered a 10-0 Illinois run that Indiana never truly recovered from
• Why Indiana's defensive game plan actually worked (holding Illinois to 71 points, 22% from three) but the math problem broke down when the Hoosiers couldn't hit open shots to capitalize
• The roster depth disparity on full display—Illinois had "more guys who could do more things" while Indiana's bench managed just five points (a Josiah Miles three and two Reed Bailey free throws)
• Lamar Wilkerson manufacturing 21 points without many clean looks, continuing to prove he's a complete scorer beyond just catch-and-shoot while teammates struggled around him
• What the offensive rebounding massacre (15 for Illinois, 4 for Indiana) reveals about the physical limitations of this roster against elite size and athleticism
• Tayton Conerway's continued absence and regression raising concerns about depth heading into the final stretch
• Why this loss shows Indiana's ceiling—good enough to beat peer-level teams but not equipped to compete with Final Four-caliber rosters like Illinois, Michigan, and Michigan State for full games

Plus, as always: the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award.

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Indiana demolished Oregon 92-74 behind Lamar Wilkerson's nuclear 41-point performance at Assembly Hall, moving to 17-8 overall and 8-6 in Big Ten play.

After missing his first five shots and not scoring until seven minutes remained in the first half, Wilkerson erupted for 16 points to close the opening period and then added 25 in a second half where Indiana shot an absurd 81% from the field, finishing with a 1.8 points-per-possession output that erased any doubt about the final outcome.

Andy Bottoms, Ryan Phillips, and Coach Bob Moats break down the offensive clinic and what it means moving forward:

• How Wilkerson became just the fifth Indiana player since George McGinnis to record multiple 40-point games in a season, now leading the Big Ten in conference scoring at 24.4 points per game
• Sam Alexis's continued emergence with another perfect shooting night (8-of-8) and dominant defensive performance against Nate Biddle, opening up the offense early when shots weren't falling
• Why Indiana's second-half offensive explosion (11-of-11 on two-pointers, missing only four total field goals) showcased the full potential of Darian DeVries's system against overmatched opponents
• Conor Enright's steady excellence as a floor general (eight assists, six rebounds, plus-22 in 36 minutes) proving he's far exceeded expectations as a Big 10 starting point guard
• The defensive lapses in the second half that allowed 1.42 points per possession—something that could prove costly against Illinois's top-ranked offense in six days
• Nick Dorn's confidence-restoring second half after struggling while battling illness, hitting clutch threes and free throws when Indiana needed scoring balance
• What this five-of-six stretch says about coaching development and veteran play compared to earlier season struggles

Plus, as always: the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award.

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Indiana survived a nail-biting overtime thriller against Wisconsin, winning 78-77 after blowing a 14-point first-half lead and trailing by four with under a minute left in regulation.

Lamar Wilkerson, appearing to battle through injury late, scored Indiana's final 10 points of regulation including a clutch layup with under three seconds to force overtime, then became the only Hoosier to score in the extra period as Indiana improved to 16-8 overall and 7-6 in Big Ten play with a crucial victory over a tournament-caliber opponent.

Andy Bottoms, Coach Brian Tonsoni (live from Assembly Hall), and Coach Bob Moats break down the gutsy win and questionable finish:

• How Sam Alexis dominated with 19 points on 9-of-10 shooting and five blocks, proving Indiana can win when the three-point shot isn't falling (just 5-of-22 from deep) by attacking inside for 44 paint points
• The defensive game plan that held Wisconsin to 38% shooting and forced their offense into uncomfortable spots, including varied ball screen coverages tailored to different shooters
• Why Indiana's late-game execution remains a glaring weakness—giving up an 11-point lead in the final four minutes with stagnant offense and defensive breakdowns before Wilkerson's heroics
• Connor Enright's massive charge call in overtime when everyone was screaming for Indiana to foul, putting officials in position to make the game-deciding call
• The controversial finish including the non-travel call on Alexis and the foul on Wilkerson's game-winner that sent Greg Gard into a meltdown
• Tucker DeVries playing all 45 minutes doing everything but scoring in bunches, plus Josiah Miles's critical defensive minutes when Nick Dorn struggled
• What this win means for Indiana's tournament resume—picking up a quality home win over a team on the same seed line while showing the resilience to close out tight games

Plus, as always: the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award.

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Indiana fell to USC 81-75 in Los Angeles, closing out a grueling West Coast road trip with a flat performance two days after their emotional double-overtime victory over UCLA.

Despite battling back from an 11-point second-half deficit to have a chance late, the Hoosiers shot just 28.6% from three-point range and got only 11 combined points from Nick Dorn and Tucker DeVries as physical and mental fatigue seemed to catch up with them. The loss drops Indiana to 15-8 overall and 6-6 in Big Ten play.

Jerod Morris and Ryan Phillips break down the disappointing but somewhat expected letdown:

• Lamar Wilkerson's heroic 33-point performance carrying Indiana offensively when no other Hoosier reached double figures, continuing his remarkable stretch that's put him squarely in first-team All-Big Ten consideration
• Why the shooting struggles (Dorn 2-of-12 from three, DeVries 1-of-9 from the field) were symptoms of tired legs after playing deep into double overtime Saturday—flat shots rattling halfway down and out instead of dropping
• The critical moments when Indiana needed to adjust away from settling for perimeter shots against USC's length and shot-blocking (11th nationally in block percentage) but continued forcing threes
• How USC's Alijah Arenas made the plays of the game, hitting key shots to turn momentum when Indiana cut the deficit to four in the second half
• Tayton Conerway's return to action showing encouraging burst and driving ability in 10 minutes, raising questions about the optimal starting lineup moving forward with Dorn playing so well
• Why this loss stings less than most of Indiana's eight defeats this year—the mentality shift in this program where they fight for 40 minutes even without their A-game
• The all-important homestand ahead against Wisconsin and Oregon that will determine whether this road trip represents progress or a missed opportunity

Plus, as always: the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award.

This episode brought to you by the Back Home Network and Homefield Apparel.

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Indiana survived a chaotic double overtime thriller at Pauley Pavilion, defeating UCLA 98-97 after blowing a 10-point lead in the final 1:34 of regulation and battling through two overtime periods without a true point guard.

Trent Sisley's made free throw with 0.6 seconds left sealed Indiana's third straight victory, moving the Hoosiers to 15-7 overall and 6-5 in Big Ten play with a crucial second quad-one win for their NCAA tournament resume.

Jerod Morris, Coach Brian Tonsoni, and Andy Bottoms (with special guests Scott Caulfield and Ryan Phillips calling in from Los Angeles) break down the gutsy road victory:

• How Nick Dorn's 21-point explosion in the second half transformed a six-point halftime deficit into a commanding lead, continuing his breakout stretch as Indiana's third legitimate scoring threat
• Reed Bailey's career performance with 24 points on 12-of-13 free throw shooting in just 28 minutes, showcasing the inside scoring dimension this roster has been missing all season
• The coaching brilliance and controversy—Darian DeVries's defensive adjustments that held UCLA to under 40% shooting versus the decision not to foul up three at the end of regulation
• Lamar Wilkerson's redemption arc after nearly losing the game with critical turnovers late in regulation, then taking over both overtimes by repeatedly attacking the rim when Indiana had no point guard to initiate offense
• Why Tucker DeVries's nine points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists might have been his most important performance as a Hoosier despite the modest scoring numbers
• The mental toughness this team showed bouncing back from a devastating collapse—what this win reveals about the culture DeVries is building and why it feels so different from recent Indiana teams
• Sam Alexis and Trent Sisley stepping up in critical moments as role players, making free throws and grabbing rebounds when starters fouled out

Plus, as always: the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award.

This episode brought to you by the Back Home Network and Homefield Apparel.

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Indiana defeated Purdue 72-67 at Assembly Hall to earn Darian DeVries his first signature victory as Indiana's head coach and secure a crucial quad-one win for the Hoosiers' NCAA tournament resume.

With the national championship football team honored before the game, Indiana jumped out to an 11-point halftime lead behind balanced scoring and relentless defense on Braden Smith, then survived a second-half offensive drought and several missed free throws to hold off Purdue's late charge and improve to 14-7 overall and 5-5 in Big Ten play.

Jerod Morris, Andy Bottoms, Ryan Phillips, and Bob Moats break down the massive victory and what it means for the program:

• Connor Enright's 40-minute defensive masterpiece on Braden Smith (holding the All-American to 14 points on 14 shots with five assists and four turnovers) and his ice-cold three-pointer at 65-63 that ended a crucial offensive drought
• How Indiana won the first half with physicality, defensive intensity, and a 21-6 run over the final eight minutes featuring clutch buckets from Reed Bailey, Lamar Wilkerson, Tucker DeVries, and Josiah Miles
• Nick Dorn's breakout continued with 18 points including eight straight in a critical second-half stretch, plus key drives that showed he's more than just a shooter
• Why Indiana's ability to avoid fouling (only 15 team fouls, nobody with more than three) while forcing Purdue into 10 turnovers was the defensive blueprint they've needed all season
• The second-half offensive struggles when Indiana went too conservative too early, missing three front-ends of one-and-ones while trying to run clock with five minutes left
• What this win means for the program's trajectory—not just making the tournament this year, but showing what DeVries can do with the right roster construction as a strong 2026 recruiting class takes shape
• Tucker DeVries's toughness leading the game with 10 rebounds despite being held scoreless in the second half, and the critical contributions from role players like Miles, Sicily, and Bailey

Plus, as always: the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award.

This episode brought to you by the Back Home Network and Homefield Apparel.

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Indiana knocked off Rutgers 82-59 on the road in Piscataway to snap a four-game losing streak and improve to 13-7 overall and 4-5 in Big Ten play.

Tucker DeVries looked like himself again with 16 first-half points to set the tone, while Nick Dorn exploded for a career-high 23 points in his first start, and Lamar Wilkerson added 27 to pace a balanced offensive attack that shot 50% from the field in both halves.

Jerod Morris, Ryan Phillips, and Andy Bottoms break down the much-needed victory and what it means heading into Tuesday's rivalry game against Purdue:

• How Tucker DeVries carried over his late-game momentum from Michigan and opened the game with back-to-back threes to give Indiana early control they never relinquished
• Nick Dorn's breakout performance hitting six threes and showing the confidence to take (and make) a crucial step-back three when Rutgers cut the lead to 12
• Why Indiana's patient half-court offense and willingness to attack the rim in key second-half moments—particularly drives by Tayton Conerway and Lamar Wilkerson—kept Rutgers from making a serious run
• Sam Alexis's defensive dominance with six blocks and 10 rebounds that gave Indiana the rim protection they've been missing
• The smart veteran decisions Indiana made throughout—only five turnovers, 15 fouls, and proper shot distribution with their three scorers taking 48 combined attempts
• What this performance means for building momentum heading into a crucial stretch with Purdue at home followed by road games at UCLA and USC
• An extended celebration of Indiana football's national championship and what it means for Hoosier fans who finally have their own championship story to tell

Plus, as always: the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award.

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Indiana fell to third-ranked Michigan 86-72, extending their losing streak to four games and dropping the Hoosiers to 12-7 overall and 3-5 in Big Ten play.

After falling behind 22-5 early without injured point guard Tayton Conerway and watching Tucker DeVries pick up two quick fouls, the Hoosiers never found their offensive rhythm against Michigan's size and defensive intensity, though they did show some fight late to cut a 24-point deficit to the final 14-point margin.

Coach Tonsoni breaks down the loss solo and looks ahead to Rutgers:

• Why this team simply cannot go through 8-10 minute stretches scoring only four points against quality competition, and how those droughts continue to define their losses
• The roster construction issues that are becoming more apparent with each loss, particularly the lack of athletic drivers and post presence to attack good defenses
• Tucker DeVries finally seeing shots fall late in the game after struggling for 30 minutes, and whether that can spark him moving forward
• Sam Alexis showing aggression and efficiency with 11 points in 19 minutes before fouling out, providing a glimpse of what Indiana needs from that position
• Reed Bailey's improved attack mentality driving to the rim, even if the finishing remains inconsistent
• Coach Tonsoni's measured approach to staying positive about the program's direction while acknowledging the deep frustration with how they're playing right now
• Why Friday's game at Rutgers feels critical for trying to end this streak before the Purdue rivalry game at Assembly Hall

Plus, as always: the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award.

This episode brought to you by the Back Home Network and Homefield Apparel.

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Indiana defeated Miami 27-21 to capture the program's first-ever national championship and cap an improbable 16-0 season.

After jumping out to a 10-0 halftime lead, the Hoosiers weathered a second-half surge from the Hurricanes before a crucial fourth-down touchdown run by Fernando Mendoza and a game-sealing interception by Jamari Sharpe secured the victory and delivered the most unlikely championship in college football history.

Coach Tonsoni, Bob, Mike, Eddie, and Ryan celebrate the historic moment and break down the game:

• How Indiana's defensive scheme of dropping eight into coverage neutralized Miami's explosive passing attack in the first half before the Hurricanes found seams in the second
• Fernando Mendoza's gutsy fourth-and-five touchdown run that embodied this team's resilience, and why it ranks alongside Keith Smart's shot in Indiana sports lore
• Coach Cignetti's brilliant timeout call in the final minutes that broke Miami's tempo and set up the game-sealing interception
• Charlie Becker's emergence as a clutch performer with crucial sideline catches that kept drives alive when Indiana needed them most
• The blocked punt by Mikail Kamara for a touchdown that restored a two-possession lead when Miami threatened to take control
• Why this represents the greatest coaching job in sports history and the most unlikely championship ever won, surpassing even the Miracle on Ice
• What this moment means for former players who endured decades of losing, longtime fans who never thought they'd see this day, and Scott Dolson's 30-year journey to bring this vision to life

Plus: live reactions from Kirkwood Avenue, gratitude for everyone who believed, and the celebration of a lifetime for Hoosier Nation.

This episode brought to you by the Back Home Network and Homefield Apparel.

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Indiana fell to Iowa 78-61 at home, dropping the Hoosiers to 12-6 overall and 3-4 in Big Ten play in a third consecutive loss that has this season teetering on the ... yeah, you know what work is coming ... brink.

After Iowa controlled the game from the opening tip and imposed their will on the Hoosiers, Indiana briefly cut the deficit to five in the second half before the bottom fell out once again, continuing a disturbing pattern of collapses that has defined their most disappointing losses this season.

Jerod, Eddie, Bob, Mike, and Ryan break down the loss and assess where this program stands:

• Why this team simply isn't talented enough to play poorly and still compete, and how fatigue—admitted publicly by Darian DeVries—is starting to catch up with a rotation stretched too thin
• The losing that's starting to creep into this team's psyche after three straight deflating defeats, and whether there's still enough will to fight through the brutal stretch ahead
• How Iowa's Bennett Sturts and Payton Sandfort combined to nearly outscore Indiana by themselves, exposing the gap between teams with multiple attackers and Indiana's limited offensive options
• Bob and Mike's eye-witness account from Assembly Hall, including the frustration on the bench and the vibes from a crowd that watched another winnable home game slip away
• Tayton Conway's ankle injury that removed the one player who could consistently penetrate Iowa's defense, and what it means when this team loses its only reliable driver
• The roster construction issues that one host compares to having elite wide receivers but no offensive line or quarterback to get them the ball
• Whether Indiana is now in tournament danger zone after dropping two home games they should have won, and what the math looks like with Michigan and Purdue looming

This episode brought to you by the Back Home Network and Homefield Apparel.

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Indiana fell to Michigan State 81-60 in a deflating road loss that dropped the Hoosiers to 12-5 overall and 3-3 in Big Ten play.

After battling back to tie the game at 53-53 midway through the second half following strong stretches to close the first half and open the second, the wheels completely fell off as Michigan State went on a devastating 26-2 run that turned a competitive game into a 21-point blowout and left Indiana searching for answers heading into a critical home matchup with Iowa.

Jerod, Andy, Coach Tonsoni, and Ryan break down the loss and look ahead to Saturday's must-win game:

• Why these extended collapses in the second half are becoming a feature of this roster rather than a bug, and what it means for Indiana's ability to compete against quality opponents
• The physicality and athleticism gap that Michigan State exposed when they decided to clamp down defensively and took away Indiana's primary options
• Tayton Conerway's frustrating inconsistency despite nine assists, and why his defensive intensity needs to return if this team has any tournament hopes
• Coach Tonsoni's pointed rant about mental toughness, off-ball movement, and effort—the kind that makes you think he might actually go run sprints in Delphi
• The turnovers and bad fouls that continue to plague this team, including Reid Bailey's flagrant foul that epitomized a night of poor decisions
• What Saturday's Iowa game has become after back-to-back devastating losses, and why it feels like a season-defining moment
• The roster construction issues exposed by this loss and whether this team can still salvage an NCAA tournament berth

Plus, as always: the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award. This episode brought to you by the Back Home Network and Homefield Apparel.

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Indiana secured a crucial road victory over Maryland 84-66, improving to 12-3 overall and 3-1 in Big Ten play.

After a sluggish first half where the Hoosiers struggled to find offensive rhythm against Maryland's physical defense, IU leaned on relentless drives to the free throw line—going 16-for-16 in the opening half—to take a five-point lead into the break, then exploded in the second half behind Lamar Wilkerson's sensational stretch to pull away for an 18-point road win.

Andy, Coach Tonsoni, and Coach Moats break down the win and look ahead to a massive showdown with undefeated Nebraska:

• How Tayton Conerway and Conor Enright attacked the paint in the first half when Maryland's physicality took away Indiana's three-point looks, and why their aggressive drives to the basket opened up everything else
• Lamar Wilkerson's explosive 16-point second-half run where he scored 16 straight Indiana points to blow the game open, including a thunderous dunk that put an exclamation point on the victory
• The coaching adjustments Darian DeVries made throughout the game, and how Maryland's attempt to switch to a matchup zone in the second half backfired and opened up Indiana's offense even more
• Why Indiana's guards scoring 59 points with 18 rebounds and only four turnovers was the story of the game, and what it means for this team's ability to win different ways
• Trent Sisley's hustle plays on the offensive glass and his continued development as a freshman willing to do the little things to earn minutes
• The lingering rebounding concerns on free throw blockouts where Maryland got three offensive rebounds that led to kickout threes
• What this road win means for Indiana's resume heading into a critical four-game stretch against Nebraska, Michigan State, Iowa, and Michigan

Plus, as always: the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award.

This episode brought to you by the Back Home Network and Homefield Apparel.

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Indiana knocked off Washington 90-80 to improve to 11-3 overall and 2-1 in Big Ten play. After a blistering offensive start where the Hoosiers hit five threes on their first five possessions, they had to navigate second-half foul trouble and some offensive struggles before pulling away for a crucial home victory.

Andy, Coach Tonsoni, Ryan, and Jerod break down the win and look ahead to a big road test at Maryland:

• How Tayton Conerway and Conor Enright torched Washington's triangle-and-two defense designed to stop Tucker DeVries and Lamar Wilkerson
• The coaching adjustments Darian DeVries made throughout the game, including strategic zone looks and rotation decisions that neutralized Washington's size
• Trent Sisley's explosive second-half stretch where he channeled his inner Strap from Hoosiers and single-handedly extended Indiana's lead
• Why Indiana's second-half foul trouble kept Washington in the game despite dominant stretches, and whether aggressive defense is worth the trade-off
• Lamar Wilkerson's clutch performance down the stretch and how he continues to evolve as more than just a shooter
• What this balanced scoring effort (eight players with 4+ points) means for Indiana's ability to beat different defensive schemes
• Coach Tonsoni's incredible Rose Bowl experience and reflections on the Indiana football program's historic moment

Plus, as always: the big moments you might have missed, stats that stood out, and our game ball and hustle award.

This episode brought to you by the Back Home Network and Homefield Apparel.

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Indiana handled Siena 81-60 to improve to 10-3 overall, closing out a solid non-conference slate before a 12-day break. The Hoosiers dominated the first half with a 46-20 lead behind intense defensive pressure, but struggled through the opening eight minutes of the second half before regaining control and pushing the lead back to 26 points.

Coach Tonsoni, Ryan, and Andy break down a tale of two halves that featured excellent stretches mixed with concerning lapses, highlighting both the team's potential and persistent issues as they prepare for Big Ten play.

• Lamar Wilkerson's first-half dominance with 19 points showcased his expanded offensive game with shot fakes, drives, and playmaking ability.
• Tayton Conerway's second-half spark attacking the rim rescued Indiana from an eight-point drought to start the half.
• Nick Dorn's shooting surge since returning from injury gives Indiana crucial floor spacing as a legitimate three-point threat.
• The persistent fouling problem with 26 fouls called raises concerns about how this team will handle more athletic Big Ten opponents.
• Tucker DeVries' 11 rebounds and early post touches suggest potential tactical adjustments for facing bigger conference competition.
• Trent Sisley's limited nine minutes and the team's 11 assists against 13 turnovers highlight rotation questions and offensive flow issues.
• The 10-3 non-conference finish positions Indiana as a fringe tournament team (28th in KenPom) heading into a loaded Big Ten with seven top-25 teams.

That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.

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Indiana suffered another loss, falling 72-60 to Kentucky at Rupp Arena in a game of two vastly different halves.

The Hoosiers led 39-32 at halftime despite shooting just 21% from three-point range, but were overwhelmed in the second half by Kentucky, who combined with superior athleticism to spark a decisive run that exposed Indiana's lack of size and north-south ability.

Coach Tonsoni, Bob, and Mike break down a disappointing performance where Indiana did many things poorly but still had chances to win before being outclassed by Kentucky's athletes in the final 15 minutes.

• Lamar Wilkerson's fourth foul at the 17-minute mark proved catastrophic, removing Indiana's best athlete just as Kentucky began dominating the glass and attacking downhill.
• Point guard play from Tayton Conerway and Conor Enright struggled under pressure, with the team finishing with just eight assists and 18 total turnovers.
• Nick Dorn's aggressive first-half drives and seven free throws showed the spark Indiana needs from him consistently against quality competition.
• Tucker DeVries battled hard with 15 points and seven rebounds, but Indiana's 4-for-24 three-point shooting made it impossible to overcome Kentucky's dominance in the paint.
• Kentucky's second-half lineup adjustments to feature their most athletic players exposed roster construction issues that will need addressing in future portal cycles.
• Indiana's 26-for-29 free throw shooting and competitive effort for 30 minutes offered some positives before fatigue and athleticism gaps became insurmountable.
• The week off before hosting Chicago State provides crucial time to work on ball security, limiting fouls, and finding more reliable interior scoring options.

On the mics: Brian Tonsoni, Bob Moats, Mike Wiemuth

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And ... Lamar Wilkerson just hit another 3-pointer.

Indiana bounced back emphatically from back-to-back losses, demolishing Penn State 113-72 at Assembly Hall to improve to 8-2 on the season and 1-1 in Big Ten play.

Lamar Wilkerson authored one of the greatest offensive performances in program history, scoring 44 points on just 24 minutes while breaking both the Assembly Hall single-game scoring record and IU's single-game three-pointer record with 10 triples.

Andy, Ryan, and Jerod break down a dominant performance where Indiana's offense clicked on all cylinders and the Hoosiers looked like a completely different team than the one that struggled against Minnesota and Louisville.

• Wilkerson's historic shooting display and how he attacked at all three levels, not just from beyond the arc, while maintaining unselfish play with four assists.
• The fast start that set the tone, with Wilkerson hitting three straight threes after IU's first miss and Indiana never trailing again.
• Reed Bailey's strong response to coming off the bench, scoring 18 points on perfect shooting while cutting harder and playing more aggressively.
• Tayton Conerway's all-around excellence with 17 points and seven assists, plus his defensive intensity that helped force 14 Penn State turnovers.
• The stunning offensive efficiency numbers, including 68.9% shooting from the field, 54.8% from three, and 30 assists on 42 field goals.
• Nick Dorn's continued development showing he can score off the dribble, not just from three-point range, as he reached double figures for the third time in four games.

Plus, looking ahead to Saturday's marquee matchup at Kentucky between two teams ranked in the top 21 of KenPom, plus reflections on Indiana football's historic Big Ten Championship victory over Ohio State.

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Indiana suffered its second consecutive loss, falling 87-78 to No. 9 Louisville at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, dropping the Hoosiers to 7-2 on the season.

The Hoosiers dug themselves an inexcusable 16-0 hole to start the game and never recovered, though they showed fight in the second half to keep the final margin respectable against a more talented, athletic Louisville squad in year two of their rebuild.

Bob and Ryan break down a disappointing performance where Indiana played soft in the first half before competing much better over the final 20 minutes, though critical mistakes at key moments prevented them from ever truly threatening.

• The hosts examine Indiana's shocking inability to finish at the rim in the opening half and how that set the tone for 20 brutal minutes.
• They discuss the stark contrast between the first and second halves, including which adjustments helped Indiana finally compete and where momentum-killing mistakes derailed potential comeback opportunities.
• Nick Dorn's second-half performance gets the spotlight as he provided crucial shooting when Indiana desperately needed a spark off the bench.
• Connor Enright's defensive masterclass on Mikael Brown and what it revealed about Louisville's balanced offensive attack.
• The surprising statistical parity between these two teams in rebounding, turnovers, and hustle points—and what that gap between the stats and the eye test tells us about the talent differential.
• Concerns about the back-to-back nature of these losses and what Indiana must prove in upcoming games against Penn State and Kentucky.
• The broader context of a historic day for IU athletics, with the football team playing in the Big Ten Championship Game while basketball searches for answers.

On the mics: Bob Moats, Ryan Phillips

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Indiana suffered its first loss of the season, falling 73-64 at Minnesota in the Big Ten opener as the Hoosiers struggled with execution and physicality throughout while shooting just 40% from the field, 29.6% from three, and a dismal 60% from the free throw line.

A blocked dunk attempt by Tucker DeVries late in the first half shifted momentum to Minnesota, and despite multiple opportunities to seize control, Indiana looked unfocused and rattled on the road for the first time under Darian DeVries.

Andy, Coach Tonsoni, and Ryan break down a disappointing performance where Indiana did many things poorly but still had chances to win, examining what went wrong and how this veteran team needs to respond against Louisville on Saturday.

• The blocked DeVries dunk that changed the game's complexion, followed by Indiana putting Minnesota on the free throw line five straight possessions while going scoreless themselves
• Tayton Conerway's team-high 18 points in just 23 minutes as the only player consistently creating his own shot, raising questions about extended bench time
• The fatal free throw shooting (12-20, including 3-10 to start the second half) when Indiana had Minnesota's bigs in deep foul trouble
• Lamar Wilkerson's gutsy second-half stretch hitting a three, blocking a shot, and getting a steal despite being blocked at the rim multiple times
• Sam Alexis's strong performance (10 points, 5-7 shooting) compared to Reed Bailey's struggles, highlighting the ongoing center rotation questions
• The stagnant offense managing just eight assists while failing to sustain defensive intensity or execute despite various adjustments from DeVries
• Minnesota controlling tempo and out-rebounding Indiana 40-25 while holding them to just three fast break points

All that and more on this edition of The Assembly Call.

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Indiana cruised to a 100-56 victory over Bethune-Cookman to move to 7-0, responding emphatically after lackluster performances in their previous two buy games with crisp ball movement (15 assists on 17 first-half field goals), relentless defensive pressure, and balanced scoring that saw four players reach double figures.

The Hoosiers never let up, building a 51-23 halftime lead and maintaining their intensity throughout.

Coach Tonsoni breaks down the dominant performance while taking questions from the chat about Big Ten prospects, lineup rotations, and how Indiana will defend bigger teams like Michigan and Purdue.

• The offensive masterclass showcased by the ghost screen play—Conerway's behind-the-back pass to Enright who swung it to DeVries for three—epitomizing Indiana's ball movement philosophy
• Nick Dorn's successful return to the rotation with 14 points on 4-5 three-point shooting in 19 minutes, adding another weapon to the perimeter arsenal
• Lamar Wilkerson's response to a 1-8 three-point night by attacking the basket and finishing 6-7 inside the arc, showing how to impact the game when shots aren't falling
• Conor Enright's point guard skills on display with seven assists, including creating perfect angles on the fast break to find open shooters
• Trent Sisley's rim-running and backdoor cutting ability that makes Indiana's offense so difficult to guard, plus his nine rebounds off the bench
• The defensive intensity that held Bethune-Cookman to 0.848 points per possession while forcing turnovers and contesting shots all night
• Indiana's 84.2% free throw shooting and 27 assists on 36 field goals continuing the trend of unselfish, efficient basketball

On the mic: Brian Tonsoni (solo show)

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Indiana moved to 6-0 with an impressive 86-69 victory over Kansas State, delivering their most complete performance of the season. Suffocating defense held the nation's leading scorer PJ Haggerty to 16 points (12 below his average) and limited a high-octane Kansas State offense to under one point per possession.

Reed Bailey overcame a rough first half to dominate the second half with 14 points in 16 minutes, while Conor Enright's defensive masterclass on Haggerty proved this team can win in multiple ways against quality competition.

Coach Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, and Bob Moats break down a statement win that has Indiana's defense rising to 15th in KenPom and the offense proving it doesn't need Tucker DeVries to go nuclear every night.

• Conor Enright's defensive clinic on Haggerty, fighting through screens and harassing him into "mental jello" all night while forcing Kansas State into uncomfortable mid-range jumpers
• Reed Bailey's tale of two halves—three turnovers in 13 first-half minutes before erupting for 14 points on perfect shooting while finally playing through contact in the second half
• Tucker DeVries diving on the floor for loose balls and dishing five assists despite scoring just nine points, showing elite players don't let cold shooting nights affect their effort
• The second-half rebounding dominance (outrebounding Kansas State 20-10) after getting outworked in the first half, proving Indiana can respond to adversity within games
• Trent Sisley's first-half spark off the bench with eight points in 15 minutes when DeVries and Bailey were struggling
• The offensive adjustment to spread the floor and create driving lanes for Tayton Conerway's aggressive rim attacks despite his seven turnovers
• Indiana shooting 71% on two-pointers and finishing plus-18 in hustle points while holding Kansas State to 40% from three (down from their 47% season average)

Plus, as always, the Banner Moment, Meaningful Moments You Might Have Missed, Inside the Numbers, and our Game Balls, Hustle Award, and Lingering Questions. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.

On the mics: Brian Tonsoni, Bob Moats, and Ryan Phillips

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Indiana moved to 5-0 with a 73-53 victory over Lindenwood, but the sluggish, stagnant performance felt uncomfortably similar to some early-season struggles from years past until Tucker DeVries went nuclear in the second half.

The Hoosiers gave up 48 rebounds including 17 offensive boards and couldn't maintain offensive flow without specific play calls from DeVries, raising questions about whether this team can sustain focus against inferior competition before Tuesday's test against Kansas State.

Jerod, Andy, and Coach break down a game that revealed some concerning tendencies while also showing signs of maturity in how Indiana responded to adversity within the game.

• Tucker DeVries's second-half takeover where he scored 17 points in 16 minutes, including 13 points on five possessions, showcasing shot-making ability Indiana hasn't had in years
• Sam Alexis's tone-setting performance with 10 rebounds and four blocks, bringing the physicality and energy that helped turn around a disastrous defensive rebounding effort
• The critical timeout at 16:43 in the second half that sparked an immediate 16-3 run and showed this team's ability to refocus when things were getting uncomfortable
• Lamar Wilkerson's defensive effort on a 4-16 shooting night, proving his offense didn't affect his defense and giving a glimpse of what kind of player he'll be when shots aren't falling
• Conor Enright's value as a non-shooter in Indiana's offense, with discussion about how to maximize a player who doesn't want to shoot but brings so much else to the table
• The offensive stagnation that plagued Indiana for long stretches, with too much standing around and one-on-one play until DeVries called specific sets to get players cutting and moving
• The lingering question about Reed Bailey versus Sam Alexis and whether we'll see a change in the starting lineup or minutes distribution as competition increases

All that and more on this edition of The Assembly Call.

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Indiana survived a sluggish shooting performance to defeat Incarnate Word 68-61, moving to 4-0 in the Darian DeVries Era despite shooting just 20.8% from 3 and missing several open looks throughout the game. The Hoosiers built a comfortable 19-point lead with stellar defense through the first 30 minutes, but allowed Incarnate Word back into the game late before responding with clutch plays from Tucker DeVries and Tayton Conerway to close it out.

Brian Tonsoni and Bob Moats break down what happens when a perimeter-oriented team can't buy a bucket, examining how Indiana's defensive intensity (holding Incarnate Word to 0.95 points per possession) and physicality on the boards in the second half kept them in control even when nothing was falling offensively.

• Sam Alexis's game-changing spark off the bench with 16 points (5-7 FG), 8 rebounds, and energy that completely shifted the game's momentum when Indiana needed it most
• Trent Sisley's rebounding impact with 8 boards in just 20 minutes, attacking the glass with aggression that helped Indiana turn around a poor defensive rebounding start
• The Spain action to start the game getting Reed Bailey an easy dunk, showcasing DeVries's willingness to use his best shooters as screeners in creative ways
• Tayton Conerway's all-around excellence with 7 assists, 6 rebounds, 3 blocks, and the playmaking that kept Indiana's offense from completely stalling
• Conor Enright's hustle plays throughout all 33 minutes, including key offensive rebounds and defensive pressure even when the blocking foul calls didn't go his way
• The concerning final 8-10 minutes where Indiana let a 19-point lead shrink to 5, showing they need to learn how to finish games with intensity even when ahead
• Indiana's defensive pressure and screen navigation forcing two shot clock violations and disrupting Incarnate Word's offensive flow for most of the game

All that and more in this edition of The Assembly Call.

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Indiana continued its impressive start with a workmanlike 101-70 victory over Milwaukee at Assembly Hall, methodically building a lead throughout the second half en route to their third straight 100-point performance.

While the Hoosiers shot a scorching 50% from three (14-28) and got another offensive clinic going, it was Tayton Conerway's most complete game as a Hoosier—21 points on efficient shooting, 6 assists, and relentless defensive pressure—that set the tone for a team that continues to validate every promise Darian DeVries made about effort and unselfishness.

Andy, Jerod, and Coach break down how this veteran roster's basketball maturity showed itself in the way Indiana handled Milwaukee's runs with immediate answers (usually a Lamar Wilkerson three), examining the defensive improvements in the second half and celebrating an offense that continues to function at an elite level even when Tucker DeVries was held to just two first-half points.

• Lamar Wilkerson's instant-response shooting, hitting four threes in the first half and finishing with 24 points as the answer to every Milwaukee run
• Tayton Conerway's breakout performance showing his speed and scoring ability when he attacks the rim, plus the hustle play late in a 25-point game diving for a loose ball
• Reed Bailey's versatility on full display with 12 points, 4 assists, and the alley-oop dunk off the backboard from Enright that brought the house down
• Conor Enright's defensive pest performance with deflections, rebounds (5), and finally hitting his first half-court three as a Hoosier
• The stark defensive improvement from first half (1.11 PPP) to second half (0.89 PPP) after DeVries got into them at halftime
• Nick Dorn's return to action showing he's ready to contribute, scoring 8 points in 7 minutes with an itching-to-shoot mentality
• Indiana allowing opponents just 27.6% of their shots from three (12th in the country) while taking 43.5% of their own attempts from deep—completely reversing the math problem that plagued them for years

On the mics: Andy Bottoms, Jerod Morris, and Brian Tonsoni

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Indiana proved it can hang with legitimate competition as the Hoosiers knocked off Marquette 100-77 in Chicago, methodically building a lead behind Tucker DeVries' unconscious first-half shooting (24 points on 8-12, 5-7 from three) before Lamar Wilkerson took over in the second half to fend off every Marquette run.

Despite significant foul trouble that had multiple starters sitting with three or four fouls, IU never let the lead dip below 10 points and played their walk-ons in the final minute of a neutral-site game against a Big East opponent—a sentence nobody expected to write in November.

Andy, Ryan, Coach Tonsoni, and Coach Moats break down how this victory against Shaka Smart's pressure defense validated everything we saw in the early games, examining the adjustments that kept IU in control despite 25 team fouls, and celebrating a performance that moved Indiana to 21st in KenPom.

• Tucker DeVries' masterclass setting the tone with 24 first-half points, including the heads-up pass to Sicily after slow-playing Marquette into thinking he'd pull it out
• Lamar Wilkerson's second-half takeover with 15 points and multiple dagger threes that stopped every Marquette run cold when DeVries sat with foul trouble
• Trent Sisley stepping up huge in extended minutes (30 total, 16 in second half) with 11 second-half points including the crucial crosscourt pass to Wilkerson for a momentum-killing three
• The offensive versatility: ghost screens, guard-to-guard ball screens, backdoor cuts off face-guarding, and constant counters to everything Shaka Smart threw at them
• 27 assists on 33 made field goals with only eight turnovers against havoc pressure, plus the starting three guards combining for 21 assists and just three turnovers
• Managing foul trouble masterfully—playing guys with 3-4 fouls extended minutes, backing off ball pressure strategically, and only having one disqualification
• Sam Alexis and Jasai Miles eating critical bench minutes when foul trouble hit, with Alexis going for 13 and 5 in 26 minutes as a plus-34

And much more.

On the mics: Andy Bottoms, Ryan Phillips, Brian Tonsoni, and Bob Moats

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Indiana basketball's new era is off to a flying start as the Hoosiers obliterated Alabama A&M 98-51 in Darian DeVries' official debut, showcasing exactly the brand of basketball that's been missing from Assembly Hall for far too long.

The Hoosiers hung 58 points on the overmatched Bulldogs in the first half, shot over 40% from three (10-24), went a perfect 16-16 from the free throw line, and scored every single point either in the paint, from three, or at the charity stripe—no long twos in sight.

Andy and Ryan break down how this dominant performance validated everything DeVries has been preaching about effort, unselfishness, and modern basketball principles, even acknowledging the massive talent gap while celebrating the habits and culture being established.

• Lamar Wilkerson's explosive seven-point stretch in two possessions (four-point play plus deep heat-check three) that ignited a 23-2 run and announced his arrival as a pure shooter
• Sam Alexis going 5-5 in the first half for 15 points including a corner three nobody saw coming, bringing instant energy off the bench
• Tucker DeVries crossing 2,000 career points while stuffing the stat sheet (18-11-4) and looking like an extension of his father's offense on the floor
• The perfect 16-16 free throw performance after years of IU ranking among the nation's worst from the charity stripe
• All 98 points coming in the paint, from three, or at the line—literally zero long twos and the analytics dream realized
• Eight players recording at least two assists showing the ball movement and unselfishness is real throughout the entire roster
• DeVries using a 40-point lead to experiment with post-doubling schemes as preparation for tougher opponents, turning blowouts into teaching moments

Plus, as always, the Banner Moment, Meaningful Moments You Might Have Missed, Inside the Numbers, and our Game Balls, Hustle Award, and Lingering Questions. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.

On the mics: Andy Bottoms and Ryan Phillips

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Indiana proved we can compete with high-level opponents in their second exhibition, grinding out a thrilling 76-74 victory over 17th-ranked Baylor in a game that felt nothing like an exhibition. Tayton Conerway's clutch drive with 12 seconds left provided the game-winner as the Hoosiers overcame a 31-18 first-half deficit to show the mental toughness and fight that could define this season.

The crew breaks down how this hard-fought win revealed both the ceiling and the limitations of this Indiana roster, discussing the adjustments that sparked the comeback, the players who stepped up in key moments, and what it all means heading into the regular season.

First Half: Surviving the Athletic Mismatch

• How Baylor's length and athleticism dominated early and the key adjustments Indiana made to chip away at the 13-point deficit
• Bob Moats on Indiana's aggressive ball pressure and passing lane disruption that forced turnovers even when getting beat off the dribble
• The backdoor cuts and defensive switches that kept IU competitive despite being physically overmatched
• Why the free-flowing offense from the Marian game struggled against elite size and speed

Second Half: Finding Ways to Win

• Three perimeter scorers carry the load: Wilkerson (12 second-half points), Conerway (13), and DeVries (9)
• The 20-of-21 free throw performance (95.2%) that became Indiana's path to victory when threes went cold (6-24, 25%)
• Jerod's excitement about the no-fouling-out trial run after Wilkerson picked up his fifth foul but stayed in the game
• Coach Tonsoni's courtside observations on ball reversal concepts and how Indiana wore down Baylor with defensive intensity

Reality Checks and Encouraging Signs

• Why Reed Bailey and Trent Sisley struggled against Baylor's athleticism and what matchup-dependent performances mean for this roster
• Overcoming a staggering 44-25 rebounding deficit and 18-3 second-chance points disadvantage through hustle and execution
• Tucker DeVries' all-around brilliance (18 points, 6 boards, 5 assists in 38 minutes) playing a step ahead mentally
• The mental toughness that allowed seven players to log heavy minutes and never quit despite physical limitations

On the mics: Jerod Morris, Brian Tonsoni, Bob Moats, and Ryan Phillips

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Indiana basketball unveiled a dramatically different brand of hoops in Darian DeVries' debut, demolishing Marian 107-46 with relentless three-point shooting and defensive intensity.

The Hoosiers launched 30 three-pointers, scored almost exclusively in the paint or from beyond the arc, and played with the kind of pace and ball movement that's been absent from Bloomington for years.

Most encouragingly, the defensive effort never wavered—even up 40 points—with closeouts, ball pressure, and fundamental box-outs on display throughout.

• Trent Sisley scored 23 points on 8-9 shooting, showing the basketball IQ and instincts of a player who simply gets the game
• Tucker DeVries lit it up in the first half, finishing with 23 points
• The offense flows through constant movement, backdoor cuts, and a willingness to share the ball (27 assists on 39 made field goals)
• Sam Alexis provides the hustle and two-handed rebounding Indiana desperately needs
• Six different players hit 3s as the Hoosiers embrace modern basketball
• Conor Enright brings relentless ball pressure and disruption on defense
• Reed Bailey showcases his versatility, even bringing the ball up in transition and popping out for threes after post touches

Plus, as always, the Banner Moment, Meaningful Moments You Might Have Missed, Inside the Numbers, and our Game Balls, Hustle Award, and Lingering Questions. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.

On the mics: Brian Tonsoni, Jerod Morris, Andy Bottoms, Bob Moats, and a special appearance from Ryan Phillips

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What a day to be a Hoosier. Before we even got to talk basketball, Curt Cignetti made it official—signing an eight-year, $11.6 million per year extension that makes him the third-highest paid coach in college football. Brian and Ryan open with their reactions to the news that keeps Indiana's football renaissance alive, joined by Galen Clavio calling in from the road to break down what this means for the entire athletic department.

Then it's time for basketball. With the first exhibition game against Marian just hours away, we dive into what Coach DeVries has been revealing at media days and in practice availability sessions.

Here's what we're watching for as the DeVries era tips off:

• How the three-point shooting philosophy translates to actual game action—spoiler: it's going to look dramatically different than what we've seen

• The intriguing possibility of Bailey and Alexis playing together, and what a two-big lineup might mean for this offense

• Rotation questions with key injuries to Drake, Dorn, and others limiting the backcourt depth early

• What "limited sets" actually means for these exhibitions, and why DeVries isn't showing his full hand yet

• The defensive identity taking shape—who's bringing that dog mentality on ball pressure?

• Chemistry reads between players who've never played together, and where the gaps might show up

• Why this completely rebuilt roster (zero returning points) makes these exhibitions even more critical

Plus, as always, KenPom's first rankings (IU at #40), what Hoops on Kirkwood revealed about the program's new energy, Trent Sisley's balcony shot, why this feels different than any recent season, and our specific player focuses for tomorrow night's debut.

On the mics: Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, and Galen Clavio

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IU football's dominant win over Illinois provided the perfect backdrop for discussing both the Hoosiers' incredible transformation under Curt Cignetti and the anticipation building around Darian DeVries' basketball program.

Coach Tonsoni was on the scene at Memorial Stadium to witness the atmosphere firsthand, and broke down everything from the defensive front's relentless pressure to Mike Katic's legendary shirtless beer-chugging performance during "Mr. Brightside."

Segment 1: Football Euphoria [00:00:00-25:00] - We dive into the electric atmosphere that had 56,000 fans waving towels in a sold-out Memorial Stadium, the complete dismantling of Brett Bielema's offense, and what this program transformation means for all IU athletics.

Segment 2: Basketball Anticipation & Chase Brandham [25:00-36:00] - Discussion of the 2027 guard's commitment and that heartwarming video of Coach DeVries learning the news, plus early practice observations and the growing excitement around the new-look roster.

Segment 3: Schedule Deep Dive [36:00-end] - Comprehensive breakdown of the released Big Ten schedule, including that brutal nine-game stretch from January to February and why IU's early conference slate could be crucial for building momentum.

Key discussion points:

• How Cignetti's "standard is the standard" philosophy has created something unprecedented in Bloomington
• Whether we're more excited for football's playoff chase or basketball's fresh start under DeVries
• Breaking down IU's Big Ten schedule into tiers and identifying where those crucial four road wins might come from
• The challenge of rating teams in the transfer portal era when everyone has new rosters
• Why that January 17th Iowa game is already circled on our calendars

Plus, as always, debate about preseason rankings meaning anything anymore, Coach's tailgate adventures, and Ryan's impossible question that had everyone choosing sides between football and basketball season. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.

On the mics: Andy Bottoms, Coach Tonsoni, and Ryan Phillips

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Indiana athletics finds itself in a rare golden moment, prompting an unscripted celebration of everything going right in Bloomington. This edition of The Assembly Call brings together Coach Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, and Jerod Morris for a freewheeling conversation about the positive momentum across multiple sports and some exciting new developments in basketball.

Going completely off-script without segments or a formal banner moment, we dive into what feels like the best time for Indiana athletics in decades. Soccer is ranked #1 nationally, football sits at 2-0 with genuine playoff aspirations, volleyball is thriving, and basketball is generating legitimate excitement under the new DeVries regime.

Key Discussion Points Include:

• Hoosier the Bison's successful rollout - From the parachute entrance to Jeremy Gray's "outstanding" acting in promotional videos, the mascot has been a hit with fans young and old
• Crimson Cast Live event recap - Ryan's experience on stage at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater discussing football with Mitchell Paige and Griffin Gonzalez
• Modern basketball philosophy - A deep dive into what "big vs. small ball" really means and how movement, not size, defines modern basketball
• Recruiting challenges and trust in DeVries - Whether Indiana's recent struggles have damaged the brand and why this coaching change feels different
• College sports realignment concerns - Ohio State's potential push for unequal revenue sharing and what it means for programs like Indiana

The conversation's highlight comes with the announcement of Hoops on Kirkwood - replacing traditional Hoosier Hysteria with an outdoor event on Kirkwood Avenue from 8-10 PM on October 2nd. We're unanimously enthusiastic about this creative approach to connecting the basketball program with students and the community.

Unscripted Tangents and Philosophy

The show takes entertaining detours through topics ranging from favorite coaches to listen to (Shaka Smart, Matt Painter, and yes, even Brad Underwood), to speculation about future sports documentaries, to the importance of stepping away from social media when sports stop bringing joy.

Throughout, there's an underlying theme of cautious optimism mixed with genuine excitement about the direction of Indiana athletics under Scott Dolson's leadership.

Plus, as always, plenty of praise for the athletic department's creative thinking, excitement about connecting basketball to campus culture, and the recognition that this feels like the most positive moment for Indiana sports in anyone's recent memory. That's all in this unscripted edition of The Assembly Call.

On the mics: Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, and Jerod Morris

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Indiana basketball fans get a chance to reflect on the Hoosiers' successful three-game sweep in Puerto Rico while also building excitement for what promises to be a historic football season.

This edition of Assembly Call Radio brings together Coach Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Andy Bottoms, and Jerod Morris to discuss the early signs from the DeVries era and the anticipation building around both basketball and football.

Segment 1: Headlines and Community Connection [00:00:00 - 00:20:00]

The banner moment focuses on Coach DeVries' community engagement during move-in week - helping students move into dorms, appearing at the freshman rally, and visiting Homefield Apparel's new Kirkwood store. The hosts emphasize how refreshing it is to see a coach embracing all aspects of the job after years of perceived resistance to community involvement.

Discussion includes the release of the Big Ten's top 40 player rankings with Lamar Wilkerson checking in at 29th and expectations for Tucker DeVries to land in the top 15. The conversation touches on Indiana's current "first four out" status in ESPN's early bracketology and upcoming exhibitions against Marian and Baylor.

A significant portion focuses on football expectations, with both hosts projecting 8-9 wins and discussing the challenge of managing fan expectations in what could be another special season under Curt Cignetti.

Segment 2: Puerto Rico Trip Analysis [00:21:00 - 00:45:00]

Special guest Galen Clavio joins to discuss the three-game Puerto Rico sweep. The hosts emphasize looking at trends rather than results given the competition level, but note encouraging signs about pace, ball movement, and the team's ability to come back from double-digit deficits in the final two games.

Key observations include the emphasis on three-point volume, improved spacing and movement compared to recent years, and the development of team chemistry among players who had never played together before. The conversation highlights how this represents a complete philosophical shift toward modern basketball.

Galen also promotes the Back Home Network's expansion with new shows including Football Weather, The Big Red Carpet, and the upcoming Crimson Cast Live event at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater.

Segment 3: Individual Standouts and Random Tangents [00:45:00 - 01:31:00]

The final segment dives deeper into individual performances, particularly praising Taton Conway's ball pressure defense and improved offensive showing, plus Reed Bailey's versatility as a passing big man who can handle the ball. The hosts discuss how this team's depth could be a major asset with multiple players capable of contributing.

The conversation takes several entertaining detours including Cowboys documentary discussions, predictions about future sports documentaries, and speculation about who would play Curt Cignetti in a hypothetical Indiana football movie. Throughout, there's underlying optimism about both programs heading into their respective seasons.

Plus, as always, analysis of a trip none of them actually watched, excitement about finally seeing modern basketball concepts at Indiana, and the challenge of tempering expectations while embracing the obvious improvements in program culture and direction. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.

On the mics: Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Andy Bottoms, and Jerod Morris (with special guest Galen Clavio)

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Indiana basketball fans got their first real look at the new era under Darren DeVries as the Hoosiers dominated their opening exhibition game in Puerto Rico 98-47. This edition of The Assembly Call brings together Coach Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Galen Clavio, and Bob Moats to break down a game none of them actually watched - relying instead on social media updates, live blogs, and video clips to piece together what happened.

The banner moment says it all: 21 three-point attempts in the first half alone. While Indiana only hit six of them, the sheer volume represents everything fans have been hoping to see - a complete departure from the basketball of recent years.

Key discussion points include:

• First impressions of the starting five and what their roles might be
• Trent Sisley's breakout performance and what it means for depth
• The European influence and basketball IQ on display
• Early defensive concerns and growing pains with communication
• What the pace and ball movement suggest about this new system
• Breaking down video clips and unofficial stats from Puerto Rico

The hosts emphasize not reading too much into results against inferior competition, but the style, energy, and philosophy on display have everyone excited about the direction of the program.

Plus, as always, plenty of basketball analysis from a game nobody actually watched, excitement about movement and spacing finally coming to Assembly Hall, and optimism about what this new era might bring. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.

On the mics: Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Galen Clavio, and Bob Moats

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