As the college basketball regular season winds down, Indiana men’s basketball finds itself in familiar territory-on the tournament bubble. It's a spot that's become all too common over the past decade, no matter who's at the helm.
This time, it's Darian DeVries steering the ship. While he's not to blame for the Hoosiers' absence from the NCAA Tournament since 2023 or their struggles to advance beyond the second round since 2016, it's now his challenge to tackle.
DeVries' inaugural season with Indiana has been a rollercoaster ride, aligning closely with preseason expectations in a Big Ten conference that's top-heavy with talent. The Hoosiers have pulled off some impressive wins, including triumphs over Purdue at home and UCLA on the road. Yet, they've also stumbled in games they were poised to win, such as against Minnesota and Nebraska, the latter slipping away despite a second-half lead.
As they approach the final stretch of conference play, Indiana remains in the same position they were at the season's start-fighting for a tournament spot. With 27 games under their belt, the team has had ample time to gel. The time for figuring things out has passed; it's crunch time.
Their upcoming matchup against Northwestern at home won't be a walk in the park. Chris Collins' squad plays with grit, and despite their record, they've pushed teams like Iowa, UCLA, and Ohio State to the brink. The Wildcats have battled fiercely against Illinois and Michigan, proving they're not to be underestimated.
Michigan State presents another formidable challenge. Although they've had their struggles on the road, the Spartans boast one of the nation’s top defenses and a standout passer in Jeremy Fears Jr. Indiana can't afford a repeat of their previous defeat in East Lansing when they meet on home turf.
Minnesota, too, has been a thorn in the side of many, including Indiana. The Golden Gophers recently dismantled Oregon and Rutgers, showcasing their potential to upset despite a losing record. The Hoosiers have already felt their sting and must be prepared for a battle.
Ohio State finds itself in a situation similar to Indiana, though perhaps more precarious. The Buckeyes need a significant win to bolster their NCAA Tournament hopes, even after toppling Wisconsin. While Indiana may not be the marquee victory they seek, defeating another bubble team could solidify their resume.
Each of these matchups presents unique challenges for Indiana. A clean sweep would secure their spot in the tournament, while a 3-1 finish would still leave them in a favorable position. Anything less could make Selection Sunday a nail-biter.
Indiana knows its identity at this point and should be playing some of its best basketball, reminiscent of their form in January. For DeVries, this stretch is crucial-not just for the season's success but for building momentum heading into his first full offseason. Now is the time for the Hoosiers to rise to the occasion.