Indiana Hoosiers vs Sam Houston Bearkats Picks and Predictions December 3rd 2024

Indiana, home after two-loss tourney, takes on Sam Houston

The Indiana Hoosiers are back home and looking to regain momentum after a turbulent showing at the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament in the Bahamas. Following back-to-back losses to Louisville and then-No. 3 Gonzaga, Indiana rebounded with a decisive 89-73 win over Providence to claim seventh place. Now, the Hoosiers aim to build on that victory as they host the Sam Houston Bearkats on Tuesday in Bloomington, Indiana.

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Indiana’s Path to Recovery

The Hoosiers (5-2) have struggled to find consistency, particularly on defense. Their losses in the Bahamas showcased significant defensive lapses, but their win over Providence displayed renewed focus, holding the Friars to 39.1% shooting from the field and limiting them to 10-of-30 from beyond the arc.

Despite the encouraging performance, head coach Mike Woodson is cautious. “When you get your butt beat like we did for two games, you better be connected,” Woodson remarked, emphasizing the need for team unity and sustained effort.

A bright spot for Indiana was the return of senior guard Trey Galloway to the starting lineup. After recovering from offseason knee surgery, Galloway made a significant impact, contributing 18 points, five rebounds, and five assists while hitting three 3-pointers. His strong performance was crucial in replacing Kanaan Carlyle, who missed the game due to an undisclosed injury.

Key Challenges for Indiana

Indiana’s defense will remain under scrutiny. While they showed improvement against Providence, the Hoosiers must demonstrate that their performance wasn’t an isolated instance. Maintaining defensive discipline and limiting turnovers will be critical as they face a Bearkats team that thrives on fast-paced offense.

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Sam Houston’s Quest for an Upset

The Sam Houston Bearkats (4-4) enter the matchup as underdogs, yet they bring plenty of potential to the floor. Offensively, the Bearkats are led by Lamar Wilkerson, who is averaging 19.6 points per game and shooting an impressive 45.3% from three-point range. A first-team All-Conference USA pick last season, Wilkerson is the focal point of Sam Houston’s attack.

Supporting Wilkerson are Kansas State transfer Dorian Finister and Brennen Burns, who each scored 15 points in the Bearkats’ recent 82-78 victory over Colgate. Despite their offensive firepower, the Bearkats have struggled defensively, allowing 77.5 points per game—ranking 303rd in the nation. If they hope to compete against Indiana, tightening up their defense will be paramount.

Second-year Sam Houston head coach Chris Mudge praised Wilkerson’s influence on the team. “It’s amazing what having other guys around him does for their motivation and focus on detail. He just really loves to play basketball,” Mudge said.

What to Watch For

1. Trey Galloway’s Continued Impact: Galloway’s return has injected new energy into Indiana’s lineup. If he maintains his strong form, the Hoosiers will benefit both offensively and defensively.
2. Indiana’s Defense: The Hoosiers must build on their improved defensive showing against Providence. Key matchups, particularly containing Wilkerson, will test their defensive resilience.
3. Sam Houston’s Three-Point Shooting: The Bearkats’ ability to connect from long range, led by Wilkerson, could keep them competitive. Indiana will need to close out aggressively on shooters.
4. Rebounding Battles: Indiana’s frontcourt players, led by Mackenzie Mgbako and Malik Reneau, will need to dominate the boards to limit second-chance opportunities for the Bearkats.

Game Outlook

Indiana has the advantage of playing at home and enters the matchup as the more talented team on paper. However, their inconsistency in recent games leaves the door open for a potential upset. For Sam Houston, this game represents an opportunity to prove themselves against a Power Five opponent. If they can improve defensively and capitalize on their offensive strengths, they could keep the game close.

Predicted Outcome

While Sam Houston’s offense has the potential to challenge Indiana, the Hoosiers’ overall depth and defensive adjustments should carry them to victory. A strong showing from Galloway, coupled with consistent defensive pressure, could seal a comfortable win for Indiana.

Indiana vs. Sam Houston

• When: Tuesday, December 5, 2024
• Where: Bloomington, Indiana
• Key Players to Watch: Trey Galloway (Indiana), Lamar Wilkerson (Sam Houston)

Indiana will look to prove that their improved play against Providence was no fluke, while Sam Houston aims to defy the odds with a standout performance.