Indiana Basketball’s Roster Overhaul: Can the Hoosiers Bounce Back Next Season?
Indiana basketball is undergoing a dramatic transformation this offseason, with a flurry of roster changes and coaching adjustments reshaping the team’s outlook for the 2024-25 season. After a disappointing finish last season, head coach Mike Woodson and his staff have been aggressive in the transfer portal and on the recruiting trail, aiming to put the Hoosiers back in contention for a deep postseason run.
Key Departures and Additions
Several key players have left the program, either through the NBA Draft process, graduation, or the transfer portal. The most significant loss was All-Big Ten forward Malik Reneau, who declared for the NBA Draft after a strong sophomore campaign. Along with Reneau, standout freshman Mackenzie Mgbako has also entered the transfer portal, drawing interest from major programs like Kentucky and Arizona. Guard Trey Galloway, a veteran leader, has graduated, leaving Indiana with a major hole in the backcourt.
In response, Woodson and his staff have worked tirelessly to bring in reinforcements. Among the biggest additions is former Duke guard Jeremy Roach, who brings experience and playmaking ability to a Hoosiers backcourt that struggled with consistency last season. Indiana also landed former Arizona big man Oumar Ballo, a dominant force in the paint who will help fill the void left by Reneau. Another key addition is sharpshooting wing Myles Rice from Washington State, who adds much-needed perimeter scoring.
Additionally, the Hoosiers have secured commitments from top recruits, including four-star guard Liam McNeeley, a versatile scorer who could make an immediate impact. The combination of experienced transfers and young talent gives Indiana a retooled roster with a higher ceiling than last year’s squad.
Coaching Staff Changes and Their Impact
The roster overhaul has been accompanied by significant changes to the coaching staff. Indiana recently hired Drew Adams as an assistant coach, a move expected to bolster the team’s recruiting efforts, particularly in the Midwest. Adams, who previously worked under Porter Moser at Oklahoma, has strong ties to Indiana high school basketball and is expected to help the Hoosiers secure top local talent in future recruiting cycles.
Another important addition to the staff is former NBA assistant coach Rick Brunson, who will focus on player development. His experience working with professional players should help Indiana’s young core progress rapidly, especially with incoming recruits adjusting to the collegiate level.
Can the Hoosiers Bounce Back?
With so many moving pieces, the big question remains: Can Indiana return to national relevance and make a serious run in the Big Ten?
The key to the Hoosiers’ success next season will be chemistry and how quickly the new roster can gel. Last year’s team struggled with consistency, particularly on offense, where the lack of outside shooting and reliable guard play hurt them in crucial moments. Roach and Rice should help address those issues, while Ballo gives Indiana a defensive anchor in the paint.
Additionally, player development will be critical. Young talents like Gabe Cupps and incoming freshmen must step up and contribute immediately. Woodson’s ability to integrate new pieces while maintaining a strong defensive identity will determine whether the Hoosiers can compete with teams like Purdue, Michigan State, and Illinois in the Big Ten.
Final Outlook
The Hoosiers have taken bold steps to reshape their roster, addressing key weaknesses from last season. While there are still questions about depth and chemistry, the influx of talent suggests that Indiana should be in a better position to compete. If the transfers and freshmen can quickly adapt to Woodson’s system, Indiana could find itself back in the mix for an NCAA Tournament berth—and potentially much more.
This season is shaping up to be a defining one for Woodson’s tenure, and Hoosier fans will be watching closely to see if this roster overhaul leads to the resurgence they’ve been
hoping for.
