Indiana head coach Darian DeVries met with the media Friday ahead of a major Big Ten road test against Illinois on Sunday - and there’s plenty to unpack as the Hoosiers prepare for one of their toughest matchups of the season.
Let’s start with the obvious: Illinois is no easy out. The Fighting Illini are not just good - they’re historically efficient on offense, according to KenPom metrics.
Add in their size and physicality, and it’s clear why opposing teams have struggled to find a rhythm against them. And now, with the possible return of Kylan Boswell - Illinois’ top perimeter defender - things could get even tougher for Indiana.
Boswell’s potential return is especially relevant given the heater Lamar Wilkerson is currently on. Wilkerson has been lighting it up lately, helping Indiana string together big wins over UCLA, Wisconsin, and Oregon.
He’s playing like one of the most dangerous scorers in the Big Ten right now, and his confidence is clearly growing with each game. But if Boswell is back, that sets up a fascinating one-on-one battle on the perimeter - Wilkerson’s offensive firepower versus Boswell’s defensive tenacity.
DeVries knows what’s coming. He spoke at length about Wilkerson’s recent surge and how the team has been riding that momentum.
But he also touched on the evolving role of his son, Tucker DeVries, who’s been adapting his game as the season progresses. Tucker’s versatility has been a key piece for Indiana - whether it’s creating off the dribble, spacing the floor, or defending multiple positions, he’s finding ways to impact the game even when the shots aren’t falling.
Another name that came up was Sam Alexis. The big man’s usage on offense has been a topic of interest, and DeVries acknowledged that they’re continuing to find ways to involve him more meaningfully. Alexis brings size and presence in the paint, and while his scoring numbers might not jump off the page, his ability to alter shots, set strong screens, and clean the glass has been critical to Indiana’s recent success.
Conor Enright also earned praise from DeVries for his energy and spark off the bench. Enright might not be the most heralded name on the roster, but his hustle plays and defensive effort have been difference-makers in close games. Every team needs that guy who brings juice when the starters need a lift - and Enright’s becoming that player for the Hoosiers.
As for Illinois, DeVries didn’t mince words - the Illini present a unique challenge. Their offensive efficiency, size, and depth make them one of the most complete teams in the country.
Indiana will need to be locked in defensively, especially in transition and around the rim, where Illinois thrives. And if Boswell is back, the Hoosiers’ guards will need to be sharp with their decision-making and ball movement.
Sunday’s matchup is more than just another conference game - it’s a measuring stick. Indiana has shown flashes of what they can be at their best, and with players like Wilkerson stepping into the spotlight, the Hoosiers are trending in the right direction. But Illinois is a different kind of test - one that will demand Indiana’s best on both ends of the floor.
We’ll see if the Hoosiers are up for the challenge.