Indiana women’s basketball is navigating a period of transition, with sophomore guard Phoenix Stotijn recently entering the transfer portal, followed by two more players, sophomore forward Faith Wiseman and junior forward Jade Ondineme. These moves, reported by On3 Sports' Talia Goodman, signal a reshaping of the Hoosiers' roster.
Standing at 6-foot-4, Wiseman has been a part of the Hoosiers for two seasons, making 26 appearances. This past season, she averaged 6.5 minutes per game, contributing six points and 16 rebounds in total. Her freshman year saw her playing 3.5 minutes per game on average, showcasing her gradual integration into the team.
Ondineme, a 6-foot-3 forward from Orleans, France, joined Indiana from Northwest Florida State College and participated in 18 games this season. Averaging 8.3 minutes, she added 1.4 points and 2.2 rebounds per game. Her earlier seasons with the Raiders were more productive, with averages of 4.3 points and 2.8 rebounds as a freshman, and six points with 4.4 rebounds as a sophomore.
Both Wiseman and Ondineme were key in providing depth for the Hoosiers, especially after sophomore forward Zania Socka-Nguemen was sidelined due to injuries. Junior forward Edessa Noyan stepped into the starting role, while Wiseman and Ondineme offered valuable minutes off the bench.
The Hoosiers wrapped up their season with an 83-59 defeat to Ohio State in the Big Ten Tournament's second round, leaving them with an 18-14 overall record and a 6-12 conference record. As they look ahead, Indiana is preparing for the departure of five players-three through the transfer portal and two graduating.
However, there's a bright spot on the horizon. The Hoosiers are bringing in ESPN’s No. 8 recruiting class, featuring standout talents like No. 28 wing Addison Nyemchek, No. 32 guard Gigi Battle, No. 64 guard Ashlinn James, and four-star center Zoe Jackson. This influx of new talent promises to inject fresh energy and skill into the team, setting the stage for an exciting future.