The Darian DeVries era with the Indiana Hoosiers has hit a few bumps early on. The team seemed destined for an NCAA Tournament spot in mid-February, but a rough 1-6 finish, capped by a lackluster exit against 15th-seeded Northwestern in the Big Ten Tournament, left them out of March Madness yet again.
With most of last season's key players now out of eligibility, DeVries and his coaching staff are facing the challenge of rebuilding Indiana's roster for the upcoming season.
While the full schedule for IU basketball is still under wraps, the non-conference matchups are starting to take shape. One game, in particular, stands out as a crucial test for DeVries.
Indiana vs. Syracuse: A Must-Win for DeVries in 2026
According to CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein, Indiana and Syracuse will face off at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on November 9. Although it's a neutral site game, the location gives the Hoosiers a slight home-court advantage.
This matchup is a golden opportunity for DeVries and Indiana. Syracuse, now under the leadership of new head coach Gerry McNamara, is in a rebuilding phase. McNamara, a former Syracuse player who won a national title in 2003, has returned to the program after a stint as head coach at Siena, where he led the team to the NCAA Tournament.
The coaching showdown between DeVries and McNamara is compelling. DeVries, after a challenging first season with Indiana, is dealing with a significant roster turnover, having lost his top five scorers. Despite some bright moments last season, missing the NCAA Tournament has intensified the pressure from Hoosiers fans eager for a March Madness return.
Meanwhile, McNamara is tasked with reviving a Syracuse program that has struggled in recent years. As he embarks on his first year, he's looking to make a strong impression and steer the Orange back to prominence.
For DeVries, securing a win against Syracuse would be a pivotal step in his second year. It's a chance to build momentum and reassure fans that Indiana is on the right path.