Hoosiers Poised for a Faster, Smaller Approach in 2024-25

After years of a slow-paced, two-big "buddy ball" offense, Indiana University basketball fans may be in for a pleasant surprise in the upcoming 2024-25 season. Head coach Mike Woodson has made it clear that he wants to implement a faster, more up-tempo style of play, potentially incorporating smaller lineups that could provide a dynamic and versatile look for the Hoosiers.

Unleashing Indiana's Offensive Firepower

Embracing a Faster Tempo

Woodson has expressed a desire to push the pace and get his team running more this season. With the addition of several quick-footed guards, including Myles Rice and Kanaan Carlyle, the Hoosiers are poised to play a more frenetic, transition-oriented brand of basketball. Woodson wants his team to capitalize on opportunities to run the floor, even after made baskets, rather than walking the ball up the court.This shift in philosophy represents a departure from the more methodical approach that has characterized Indiana basketball in recent years. Woodson believes he now has the personnel to truly implement a faster-paced offense, something his predecessor, Archie Miller, was unable to achieve due to a lack of suitable players.

Experimenting with Small-Ball Lineups

In addition to increasing the overall tempo, Woodson is also exploring the possibility of utilizing smaller, more versatile lineups. The coach envisions scenarios where players like Mack Mgbako and Luke Goode can play at the power forward position, allowing the Hoosiers to maintain athleticism and quickness on the floor while still being able to compete at a high level.This small-ball approach could provide Indiana with a unique advantage, as it would force opposing teams to adjust their defensive strategies. Woodson is confident that the Hoosiers' newfound depth and talent can support this style of play, with players like Myles Rice and Kanaan Carlyle providing the necessary speed and playmaking ability to make it work.

Addressing Shooting Woes

One of the key factors in the success of Indiana's small-ball lineups will be their ability to improve upon the team's three-point shooting from the previous season. Woodson is optimistic that additions like Luke Goode, Trey Galloway, and Mackenzie Mgbako, along with the continued development of Myles Rice and Kanaan Carlyle, will provide the necessary perimeter shooting to complement the team's inside presence.Improving the Hoosiers' three-point accuracy will be crucial in creating the necessary floor spacing to allow their smaller lineups to thrive. Woodson believes that with the right mix of talent and shooting, Indiana can find the right balance between their traditional two-big approach and the more modern, up-tempo small-ball style.

Defensive Adjustments and Lineup Flexibility

While the focus has been on the offensive changes, Woodson also acknowledges the defensive challenges that come with playing smaller lineups. Malik Reneau, who has shown the ability to stretch the floor as a power forward, will need to prove he can effectively guard opposing players at that position.Woodson and his staff have been working extensively with Reneau and the rest of the team to ensure they can seamlessly transition between different defensive assignments and lineups. The ability to switch between big and small lineups, while maintaining defensive integrity, will be crucial to the Hoosiers' success in the upcoming season.

Balancing Old and New

It's important to note that the traditional two-big "buddy ball" approach is not going to disappear overnight. Woodson is likely to start the season with both Reneau and 7-foot center Oumar Ballo in the starting lineup, as he has been reluctant to tinker with his starting five in the past.However, the real question will be how much Reneau and Ballo play together over the course of a game, and whether the two-big lineup can be effective in the modern game. Woodson believes that Reneau's potential as a shooter and passer can help space the floor and make the two-big lineup more viable, but the key will be Reneau's ability to defend on the perimeter.As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how Woodson balances the old and the new, blending the traditional two-big approach with the more up-tempo, small-ball style he envisions for the Hoosiers. The team's ability to adapt and find the right mix of personnel and strategies will be crucial in determining their success in the 2024-25 campaign.