In a showdown that could redefine their Big Ten rivalry, Northwestern is on the verge of making history against Indiana. The Wildcats are poised to notch their longest-winning streak ever in this storied 118-year series. Having already matched their previous best with five consecutive victories, Northwestern aims to set a new benchmark by clinching a sixth straight win against the Hoosiers.
Historically, Indiana has had the upper hand, boasting a 120-57 record over Northwestern. There were periods of dominance, such as from 1971 to 1981 and 1988 to 2003, when the Hoosiers didn't drop a single game to the Wildcats. However, the tide has shifted dramatically in the past five years.
Northwestern is also eyeing an extension of their winning streak at Assembly Hall, where they haven’t lost since January 2020. The last time Indiana managed to defeat Northwestern was in a nail-biting double-overtime game in 2021, during the twilight of the Archie Miller era.
Chris Collins, the Wildcats' head coach, has a commendable 10-8 record against Indiana, with a notable 4-5 record at Assembly Hall. This places him among the top active Big Ten coaches in terms of victories in that challenging venue.
Let’s revisit Northwestern’s current five-game winning streak against Indiana:
JAN. 22, 2025 - EVANSTON
Northwestern pulled off a commanding 79-70 victory, thanks to a blistering 13-of-27 performance from beyond the arc. A decisive 21-4 run in the second half sealed the deal, as the Wildcats put up 54 points after the break.
FEB. 18, 2024 - BLOOMINGTON
In a game where Indiana donned their dark "Fear of God" uniforms, Northwestern secured a 76-72 win. Despite falling behind by 14 points in the second half, the Hoosiers made a late push to close the gap, but poor shooting from deep and the free-throw line proved costly.
FEB. 15, 2023 - EVANSTON
Northwestern edged Indiana 64-62, capitalizing on two technical fouls against the IU bench. The Wildcats led 39-20 at halftime, and despite a fierce rally from Indiana, Boo Buie and Chase Audige combined for 35 points, with Buie sealing the win on a controversial play.
JAN. 8, 2023 - BLOOMINGTON
In a thrilling encounter, Northwestern triumphed 84-83. Indiana mounted a comeback from a 76-63 deficit with just four minutes left, spurred by Jalen Hood-Schifino's career-high 33 points. However, the absence of key starters Race Thompson and Xavier Johnson was felt.
FEB. 8, 2022 - EVANSTON
Northwestern won 59-51 in a game marred by Indiana's internal issues, as head coach Mike Woodson suspended five players. The Hoosiers struggled offensively, shooting only 37% from the field and 4-of-16 from three-point range.
As Northwestern looks to continue their streak, the Wildcats have turned the tables on a once-dominant Indiana team, showcasing their growth and resilience in the Big Ten landscape.