The Indiana Hoosiers hosted their annual Cream & Crimson scrimmage on Friday night, giving fans their first real glimpse of the 2025 squad. With the season right around the corner, this team already looks like it’s carving out a clear identity. What stood out most wasn’t just individual performances, but how well the Hoosiers played together—sharing the ball, pushing the tempo, and competing with intensity. The night felt less like a casual tune-up and more like a statement that this group is ready to turn potential into results.
Specific Observations
- Tucker DeVries showed why he’ll be a centerpiece this season. His shot looked smooth and accurate all night, whether from deep or inside the paint. He also crashed the boards hard, grabbing key defensive rebounds, while bringing the full package with aggressive defense and confident scoring.
- Lamar Wilkerson displayed his range. He looked comfortable spotting up from three, where he hit at a high percentage, but also flashed the ability to put the ball on the floor and finish drives at the rim.
- Conor Enright proved to be a hustle player through and through. He wasn’t afraid to hit the floor for loose balls and showed a knack for bringing energy to his team. At times, his quickness bordered on sloppy, and his shot remains inconsistent, but his effort and toughness stood out.
- Reed Bailey seems to be emerging as the option at the five. While not the most physical or aggressive defender, he held his own in the paint and gave the Hoosiers stability in the role.
- Freshman Trent Sisley impressed as a confident playmaker. Known for his limitless shooting range, he didn’t hesitate when the ball found him. His role this season is still unclear, but when opportunities come, he looks poised to take advantage.
- Sam Alexis brought energy above the rim. He fought hard for his team and threw down multiple dunks, setting the tone with his physical presence inside.
- Jasai Miles provided consistent perimeter shooting. He stayed true to his strengths, stretching the defense with reliable jumpers from outside.
- Tayton Conerway commands the court and plays really well. His accuracy looked good and he’s acted as a great leader.
General Observations
- The defense was a battle. Both sides played with intensity, fighting for position and refusing to give an inch. The physicality was consistent, making every possession contested.
- The starting five leaned heavily on the three-ball—and with success. Their shooting looked crisp and confident, providing a preview of how dangerous this group could be from beyond the arc.
- Defensively, Indiana showed flashes but also weaknesses. The team recorded strong blocks and steals in the paint during the opening period, but rim protection faltered in the second and third. While they were aggressive on the defensive glass, offensive rebounding continues to be an area of concern.
- The scrimmage ended on a sudden note. Just 50 seconds into the fourth period, Jasai Miles went down. Coach DeVries decided to call the scrimmage at that point, wrapping up the evening.
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