Hoosiers Seek Another Strong Showing Against Miami (OH)
The Indiana Hoosiers (6-2) delivered a statement win on Tuesday night with a 97-71 rout of Sam Houston State, a game defined by balanced scoring and impressive bench contributions. Indiana will look to replicate that performance Friday night when they face the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks (5-2) in a nonconference clash at Assembly Hall.
Indiana Riding High on Team Effort
Against Sam Houston State, Indiana showcased its depth and offensive firepower. The Hoosiers had four players in double figures, led by reserve Luke Goode’s 18 points. The Illinois transfer caught fire in the first half, hitting four 3-pointers in under four minutes to spark a 34-12 lead.
“I thought it was a total team effort on everybody’s part,” said head coach Mike Woodson. “Helps when your bench come off and play the way they did. Goode was fantastic, but everybody off the bench played well.”
Indiana’s bench contributed 36 points, a critical factor in their ability to dominate the Bearkats.
Key Players for Indiana
- Luke Goode: After a breakout 18-point performance, Goode is emerging as a crucial weapon off the bench.
- Myles Rice: The point guard bounced back with a strong 19-point showing, complementing his steady playmaking.
- Mackenzie Mgbako: Indiana’s leading scorer (16.8 PPG) anchors the offense with his versatile scoring ability.
Miami (OH) Relies on Suder’s Scoring Explosion
The RedHawks enter Friday’s game with confidence after a 73-60 win over Air Force. Bellarmine transfer Peter Suder stole the show, pouring in a career-high 42 points on an efficient 17-of-21 shooting performance. It was the highest-scoring game for Miami since Wally Szczerbiak’s 43-point outing in 1999.
“Peter was phenomenal. It was just get out of the way and just let him go,” said Miami head coach Travis Steele.
Key Players for Miami (OH)
- Peter Suder: Averaging 17.4 points per game on 58.8% shooting, Suder is the offensive engine for the RedHawks.
- Kam Craft: The second-leading scorer (14.1 PPG) adds a consistent scoring threat from the perimeter and inside.
Suder’s historic performance highlighted Miami’s potential, but the RedHawks will need contributions from their supporting cast to challenge Indiana on the road.
Series History and Outlook
Indiana has historically dominated this matchup, winning 22 of the last 25 meetings. The Hoosiers last faced Miami two years ago in Indianapolis, cruising to an 86-56 victory.
This game represents an opportunity for Indiana to build consistency heading into a tougher stretch of their schedule. For Miami, it’s a chance to prove they can compete against a Power Five opponent and sustain the momentum of Suder’s brilliance.
Key Matchup to Watch
- Luke Goode vs. Miami’s Perimeter Defense: Goode’s ability to shoot from deep will test Miami’s defensive rotations. If he gets hot again, it could spell trouble for the RedHawks.
- Peter Suder vs. Indiana’s Defense: Suder’s scoring ability will face a tougher challenge against Indiana’s size and athleticism. How well the Hoosiers contain him will be critical.
Explore expert insights in the College Football Championship Odds & Predictions article.
What’s at Stake?
For Indiana, a win would reinforce their identity as a team capable of dominating with depth and balance. Continued strong performances from their bench could bode well for conference play.
For Miami, this game is about measuring themselves against a higher level of competition. Another standout game from Suder could elevate his profile and give the RedHawks a fighting chance.
Fans can expect a fast-paced, high-energy game as both teams aim to make a statement in this nonconference matchup.