Episodes
-
Indiana's concerning trend of lopsided losses continued in Lincoln, as the Hoosiers fell to Nebraska 85-68 in a game that spotlighted many of this team's persistent issues, particularly on the defensive end.
The Hoosiers showed flashes of improved play and modern offensive principles in stretches, including battling back from early deficits in each half to make it a one-point game with seven minutes remaining. However, as has happened far too often under Mike Woodson, Indiana collapsed down the stretch as Nebraska closed on a 17-1 run.
Key topics discussed and analyzed in the postgame show include:
Indiana's defensive struggles, as they allowed Nebraska to shoot over 61% and score 1.25 points per possessionThe unusual shot distribution, with IU attempting 35 three-pointers while post players Malik Reneau and Oumar Ballo combined for just 10 shotsMyles Rice's impressive 20-point performance, including a crucial run where he scored 13 straight points that kept Indiana in the game (temporarily)Luke Goode's continued emergence as an energy player and leader despite the team's strugglesConcerning trends about IU's ability to compete for 40 minutes on the roadQuestions about whether this team's defensive issues can be fixed given both scheme and personnel limitationsPlus, as always, the Banner Moment, Meaningful Moments You Might Have Missed, Inside the Numbers, and our Game Balls, Hustle Award, and Lingering Questions. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.
On the mics: Jerod Morris, Ryan Phillips, and Coach Brian Tonsoni
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
Indiana opened Big Ten play with an impressive 82-67 victory over Minnesota, highlighted by strong bench contributions from Kanaan Carlyle (14 points) and Bryson Tucker (16 points) that keyed a decisive 16-1 first-half run.
This was one of IU's most complete performances of the season as the Hoosiers controlled the tempo throughout, overcoming some early defensive lapses to dominate inside with their size advantage while getting five players in double figures scoring.
Other key storylines discussed:
Oumar Ballo's efficient night (5-5 FG, 8-11 FT) showed continued improvement in his offensive game and free throw shootingIndiana successfully dictated pace against a Minnesota team that typically likes to play slowThe bench unit of Carlyle/Tucker/Galloway/Goode/Ballo sparked the game-changing run with their defensive energyMultiple displays of hustle plays and floor-diving effort that energized Assembly HallStrong ball movement led to 21 assists on 30 made field goalsPlus, as always, the Banner Moment, Meaningful Moments You Might Have Missed, Inside the Numbers, and our Game Balls, Hustle Award, and Lingering Questions. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.
On the mics: Andy Bottoms, Tony Adragna, Josh Pos
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
Missing episodes?
-
Indiana's 76-57 victory over Miami (OH) displayed both the team's immense potential when locked in and lingering concerns about consistency. The Hoosiers built an early lead, let Miami back in, then pulled away late behind strong performances from their frontcourt.
Omar Ballo's dominant 18-rebound, 6-assist effort and Malik Reneau's efficient 19-point performance highlighted IU's size advantage, but 16 turnovers and defensive communication issues remain worrisome with Big Ten play approaching.
Mike Woodson emphasized the need to clean up defensive switches and maintain better focus throughout games.
Other key storylines discussed:
A tale of two halves, with IU outscoring Miami 37-21 after halftimeTrey Galloway's improved three-point shooting (3-4) and overall steady playMyles Rice's efficient 17-point performance despite some turnover issuesMackenzie Mgbako's struggles (4 points) and the challenge of staying engaged when shots aren't fallingStrong bench contributions, particularly from Luke Goode who provided energy and hustle playsPlus, as always, the Banner Moment, Meaningful Moments You Might Have Missed, Inside the Numbers, and our Game Balls, Hustle Award, and Lingering Questions. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.
On the mics: Andy Bottoms, Bob Moats, and Producer Eddie
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
After struggling in the Bahamas, Indiana showed some encouraging signs on offense in a decisive 97-71 victory over Sam Houston State, highlighted by a smaller lineup and strong bench contributions.
Mike Woodson demonstrated flexibility by moving away from the two-big lineup that had struggled previously, while Luke Goode (career-high 18 points) and Anthony Leal provided crucial energy and execution off the bench that helped spark the offense.
The defensive concerns remain, but the Hoosiers showed they may be able to compensate with improved offensive spacing and tempo when playing with just one big man on the floor.
Key discussion topics included:
The stark difference in offensive flow and spacing when playing with one big versus twoMyles Rice's second-half emergence after early strugglesThe invaluable hustle and leadership provided by Anthony Leal in his expanded minutesIndiana's improved defensive rebounding after struggles in that area in the BahamasWhat tonight's lineup adjustments could mean for the rotation going forwardContinued concerns about perimeter defense despite the comfortable winPlus, as always, the Banner Moment, Meaningful Moments You Might Have Missed, Inside the Numbers, and our Game Balls, Hustle Award, and Lingering Questions. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.
On the mics: Andy Bottoms, Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
Join us immediately following Indiana's Battle 4 Atlantis 7th-place game against Providence. The Hoosiers won 89-73 to salvage a game in the Bahamas and improve to 5-2 overall.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
Indiana put forth one of the most disappointing performances of the Mike Woodson era in an 89-61 loss to Louisville in the Battle 4 Atlantis opener.
The Hoosiers looked unprepared and uninspired from the opening tip, falling behind early and showing little fight as Louisville steadily built their lead throughout the game. The loss severely damages Indiana's non-conference resume and raises serious concerns about the team's ability to compete in showcase events, continuing a troubling pattern from recent seasons.
Key discussion topics:
Guard play was abysmal, with IU's backcourt getting thoroughly outplayed by Louisville's Chucky HepburnIndiana committed 23 turnovers compared to just 21 made field goalsLouisville dominated points in the paint (48-20) despite IU's size advantageLack of offensive creativity and adjustments when Louisville took away IU's primary optionsQuestions about team's mental toughness and ability to handle adversityLuke Goode provided one of few bright spots with his vocal leadership late in the gamePlus, as always, the Banner Moment, Meaningful Moments You Might Have Missed, Inside the Numbers, and our Game Balls, Hustle Award, and Lingering Questions. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.
On the mics: Jerod Morris, Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips
Programming note: There will be no live postgame show after tomorrow's game. We will most likely discuss the Thursday and Friday games in a single show either on Friday or this weekend.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
Indiana's struggles with consistency continued even in victory, as stretches of dominant play were mixed with concerning lapses in what became a closer-than-expected 69-58 win over UNC Greensboro.
The Hoosiers jumped out to an early 21-4 lead but allowed UNCG to battle back and tie the game in the second half before freshman Bryson Tucker helped IU pull away. Poor defensive rebounding and stagnant offensive stretches provided reasons for concern heading into next week's Battle 4 Atlantis tournament.
Key topics discussed:
Bryson Tucker's breakout second half performance (14 points, including 12 after halftime) providing a crucial sparkMyles Rice's strong overall game (20 points, 6 assists) but heavy 35-minute workloadDefensive rebounding issues allowing 17 offensive boards to a smaller UNCG teamContinued low 3-point attempt volume despite preseason emphasis on increasing perimeter shotsBench rotation challenges and finding the right lineup combinationsGrowing importance of upcoming Louisville game and Battle 4 Atlantis tournament for NCAA resumePlus, as always, the Banner Moment, Meaningful Moments You Might Have Missed, Inside the Numbers, and our Game Balls, Hustle Award, and Lingering Questions. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.
On the mics: Andy Bottoms, Ryan Phillips, and even a late appearance by Jerod Morris (who?)
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
Indiana defeated South Carolina 87-71 to improve to 3-0 on the season, led by Myles Rice's impressive 23-point performance.
The Hoosiers got off to a strong 17-4 start and maintained control throughout, though South Carolina did trim the lead to 8 late before IU pulled away. Despite a relatively quiet offensive night from big men Malik Reneau and Oumar Ballo, Indiana's guard play and defensive pressure proved to be the difference makers.
Key Storylines:
Banner Moment: Early sequence where Kanaan Carlyle found Myles Rice for a catch-and-shoot three, sandwiched between two fast break conversionsGuard Play: Strong ball pressure defensively and excellent transition offense set the tone, with guards dictating pace throughoutPost Play: Ballo (7 pts, 13 reb, 6 blocks) and Reneau struggled with back-to-basket offense but were effective in other areasThree-Point Shooting: Indiana shot 8-17 (47.1%) from three-point rangeFree Throw Shooting: Strong 81.8% (27-33) from the line as a teamPlus: meaningful moments, key stats, game balls, and the hustle award.
On the mics: Coach Moats and Coach Tonsoni (live from Assembly Hall).
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
Join us on Sunday, November 10th immediately following Indiana's home 90-55 win against Eastern Illinois.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
Indiana opened their 2023-24 season with a solid 80-61 victory over SIU Edwardsville, powered by sophomore Mackenzie Mgbako's breakout 31-point performance that served notice his offseason development was no mirage.
From the Assembly Call postgame discussion:
Mgbako's transformed confidence leads to a career-high 31 points on efficient 13-of-17 shootingMyles Rice, Trey Galloway, and Kanaan Carlyle bringing distinctly different but complementary skills at guardHigh expectations meeting early growing pains for Oumar BalloQuestions about defensive rebounding after allowing 16 offensive boardsSigns of an evolving offensive identity under Mike WoodsonA dominant individual performance earns the game ballHustle Award goes to a spark plug guard who elevated the entire team's energyThe Hoosiers move to 1-0 and will look to build on this foundation when they host Eastern Illinois on Sunday at noon.
On the mics: Coach Brian Tonsoni, Andy Bottoms, Ryan Phillips
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
Indiana defeated Marian on Friday night in Pat Knight's return to Assembly Hall. The Knights were no match for Indiana's size and athleticism, but there were still some interesting takeaways from the Hoosiers' final preseason tuneup.
With Coach and Ryan on the mic (and a drop-in from Jerod midway through), we highlight the Banner Moment, key storylines, meaningful moments, and important stats from this game -- including Jakai Newton's long-awaited debut, the strong play of Indiana's bench, and many more moments from Myles Rice that have IU fans excited about their new point guard.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
On Sunday afternoon, Indiana traveled to Knoxville for a charity exhibition against the Tennessee Volunteers. The Hoosiers were without Trey Galloway, Jakai Newton, and Bryson Tucker, but the remaining Hoosiers were able to eke out a comeback victory in both teams' first non-scrimmage public performance.
Indiana was led by newcomer Myles Rice and veteran Malik Reneau, and we got our first-look at several other Hoosiers. How did the new-look offense look? How did the defense look? We convened an exhibition edition of The Assembly Call immediately following the game.
On the mics: Coach Tonsoni and Coach Moats
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
We discuss a wide range of Indiana basketball topics -- including the preseason rankings, how recruiting has changed in college basketball, Hoosier Hysteria, Indiana's potential offensive changes this season -- and dabble in a bit of football talk with IU-Nebraska this weekend.
Also: the sudden retirement of Tony Bennett at Virginia.
On the mics: Jerod, Coach Tonsoni, and special guest Zion Brown
Plus, another fun AI song at the end .. which commemorates a memorable individual performance and victory, and the epic porch celebration in inspired from one AC host and his son.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
The first recruiting domino for IU in the class of 2025 has fallen.
On Monday, Mike Woodson and his staff received a commitment from Trent Sisley, coming on heels of his official visit to Bloomington.
Sisley, who played three high school seasons at Heritage Hills H.S. and will play this season at Montverde, is an important commitment for Woodson on a number of levels, all of which we break down in this emergency podcast.
On the mics: Jerod, Coach Adragna, and Alex Bozich from ITH.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
In this offseason episode, we discuss the latest in Jalen Harralson’s recruitment, react to Wednesday's Media Day, and break down the full Big Ten schedule, which was released Thursday.
We also discuss the hot start by IU football and discuss this week's "talent tax" initiated by Tennessee.
Plus, a little something fun at the end for folks who listen all the way through on the podcast feed.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
Coach and Ryan kick things off, with Jerod and Andy joining soon thereafter.
We dive into a bunch of different topics, including:
The ever-increasing influence of money in college sportsThe Battle for Atlantis bracket — and what Indiana must do to consider it a successful tripA series of questions Coach was asked on a recent podcast appearance, which he wants to hear us answerA bunch of interesting mailbag questions from our audience — including one that leads to an in-depth conversation about the conflicts many of us our feeling here in the new era of college sports.Plus a fun little music thing at the end.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
We’re back! And happy to be back.
On this offseason catch-up episode of The Assembly Call, we discuss all of the following:
The IU TBT team, which tips of play on FridayKel'el Ware's strong play so far in NBA summer leagueA deep dive on Indiana's non-conference schedule and whether it's good, bad, or too soon to tellSome mailbag questions, including who the most hatable players in the Big Ten are and a GREAT idea on how Indiana could honor the great Bill GarrettThen we discuss the reasons for our 7-week hiatus and what to expect from the show moving forwardAnd then it's time for AC After Dark, which includes a discussion about the Hysterics-Woodson situation and replaying one of Bob Thompson's greatest musical creations.
All that and much more on this episode ... which opens with a few musical hiccups since Jerod wasn't able to join the show until about halfway through.
On the mics: Andy, Ryan, Coach ... and eventually Jerod
Thanks for sticking with us while we were away!
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
Join us on Thursday evening at 9 ET to discuss the latest Indiana basketball news, as well as a wide-ranging conversation with Galen Clavio about the massive changes coming to the college sports as the artifice of collegiate "amateur" sports continues to crumble.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
Join us on Thursday night for our weekly discussion about Indiana men's basketball. This week, we'll focus on the newest Hoosier: Langdon Hatton. What skills and experience does Hatton bring to Bloomington? How is he likely to be used? We'll discuss all of that and much more on this week's episode.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
-
Coach is back!
We roll through some Hoosier Headlines and discuss what Indiana is likely to do with one of its final two scholarships. Then we dive into a conversation about how to be a fan in the portal era. What does so much roster turnover mean for the connections we feel with our programs and players?
And then we answer a satchel full of listener questions, including one about how Indiana can get (and take) more good looks from 3, which recent IU role player would be the best fit on this year's roster, and more.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
- Show more
