Indiana basketball is riding high right now - and not just because of a statement win over rival Purdue. Less than 24 hours after that emotional victory, the Hoosiers landed a major piece for the future.
Trevor Manhertz, a 4-star small forward from Christ School in Cary, North Carolina, announced his commitment to Indiana on Wednesday afternoon. But that’s not all - Manhertz is also reclassifying from the class of 2027 to 2026, meaning he’ll suit up in Bloomington next season.
That’s a big-time addition for head coach Darian DeVries, who’s clearly making the wing position a priority in his first full recruiting cycle. Manhertz joins a 2026 class that already includes two other 4-star talents: guard Prince-Alexander Moody and wing Vaughn Karvala. That trio gives Indiana a versatile, athletic, and high-upside foundation to build on - and it’s coming together fast.
DeVries’ emphasis on wings who can shoot is already showing up on the court this season. While Lamar Wilkerson has logged the bulk of the minutes at the small forward spot, injuries have opened the door for Nick Dorn, who brings more of a traditional wing profile. Dorn has stepped up in a big way over the last two games, giving the Hoosiers a glimpse of what a bigger, more physical lineup can look like.
Now, with Manhertz in the fold, Indiana is adding another piece to that puzzle - a long, skilled forward who fits the mold of what DeVries wants on the perimeter. He’s not just a future contributor; he’s part of a vision that’s starting to take shape.
This commitment signals more than just a roster move - it’s a sign that Indiana is building with intention. DeVries is laying the groundwork for a program that can compete not just in the Big Ten, but on a national level. And with the way things are trending, this 2026 class might not be finished yet.