Welcome to our in-depth recap of the 2025-26 Indiana Hoosiers, where we spotlight the standout performances that defined the season. Today, we're focusing on the electrifying Lamar Wilkerson.
Wilkerson's stats tell the story: 20.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and one steal per game, all while shooting 46.3% from the field across 33.9 minutes in 32 games. These numbers reflect his pivotal role in the Hoosiers' lineup.
As a highly-touted transfer, Wilkerson arrived in Bloomington with big expectations, choosing Indiana over Kentucky in a fierce recruiting battle. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 205 pounds, his transition from Sam Houston State was seamless. There, he had already made waves, averaging 20.5 points and shooting a blistering 44.5% from beyond the arc.
Wilkerson managed to elevate his game despite moving from a mid-major to a high-major program-a rare feat. He hit double figures in 29 of 32 games, with 16 performances of 20 points or more, proving his scoring prowess.
Right from the start, Wilkerson's shooting was a game-changer. He drained 15 three-pointers in Indiana's first three games, shooting 57.6% from deep, setting the tone for the season.
His standout moment came in the second Big Ten game, where he erupted for 44 points against Penn State, setting an Assembly Hall record. His 16-for-22 shooting, including 10-for-15 from three, broke the program record for most threes in a single game.
Coach Darian DeVries praised Wilkerson's dedication: “He puts in the work every day. It was fun to see him kind of get loose and showcase all that work he puts in.”
Wilkerson continued to break records, averaging 23.2 points in Big Ten play and setting a new mark with 70 made threes in conference games. His consistent scoring saw him notch 20-plus points in 12 of 20 conference matchups.
Earning KenPom game MVP honors nine times, Wilkerson's season was filled with memorable performances: 24 points at Maryland, 32 against Nebraska, 27 at Rutgers, and a thrilling 41-point game against Oregon, to name a few.
Starting all 32 games, Wilkerson logged the second-most minutes on the team and posted the highest scoring average for an IU guard since Eric Gordon. His 669 points rank 11th in IU's single-season history.
Wilkerson not only met but exceeded expectations, becoming a focal point for opposing defenses yet remaining unstoppable. His efforts earned him All-Big Ten second team honors from coaches and third team from the media, along with multiple player of the week accolades.
Though IU missed the NCAA tournament for the third consecutive year, Wilkerson's performance kept them in the conversation. His scoring ability was among the best in the Big Ten and the nation. His shooting, midrange game, and finishing at the rim were top-notch, making him a standout player of the season.
Reflecting on his record-setting game against Penn State, Wilkerson credited his teammates and coaches: “Coach told me today was going to be the day that I got hot... They kept feeding me. The shots kept going in.”
Wilkerson's season will be remembered as a bright spot for IU, setting the stage for future success and leaving a lasting impact on the program.