Indiana basketball is one of the most historic programs in the Big Ten Conference. Their five National Championships are the most won by original members. Obviously, the addition of UCLA trumps that number, but still the Hoosiers remain a historic program nonetheless. It has been 38 years since they last won it all, and Indiana hasn’t reached a final four since 2002. Current head coach Mike Woodson has led the Hoosiers to two NCAA appearances, but things aren’t looking too hot right now.
Mike Woodson’s Days Are Numbered at Indiana
When former Hoosier player Mike Woodson came back to Bloomington, a lot was expected. This was especially since he came from coaching in the NBA. His first season in 2021-22 was respectful as he was able to help sneak into the NCAA tournament. He also inherited plenty of experience from the previous coach Archie Miller. The best of those was Trayce Jackson-Davis, who ended up being one of the most important pieces for Woodson.
Fast forward to his second season as the head man, and the Hoosiers took a big step forward as they finished the season with 23 victories and tied for second in the Big Ten. The team was also able to reach the round of 32 for the first time since 2016. Indiana hasn’t won the Big Ten in the regular season since that season either. They had plenty of hope coming into the 2024-25 season, despite going 19-14 last season and missing the NCAA tournament.
Talent isn’t Lacking
The struggles for the Hoosiers for the better part of two decades hasn’t been because of lack of talent. This season is no different as Mike Woodson was able to spend a lot of money in NIL to bring in a big transfer in Oumar Ballo from Arizona. Not to mention that he’s paired with Mackenzie Mgbako in the frontcourt. Woodson was also able to grab Bryson Tucker from the high school ranks.
Ballo is right near the top of the Big Ten in rebounding. Still, the Hoosiers for whatever reason can’t seem to get things right. That was the sum of their recent clash with Maryland, as they just fell apart at the end of the game.
RODNEY RICE STUNS INDIANA IN ASSEMBLY HALL 😤https://t.co/jjP68rfI6i
— College Basketball Content (@CBBcontent) January 26, 2025
Tournament Hopes Going Up in Smoke
That game with Maryland was right there for the taking, and Indiana once again failed to capitalize. Losing home games isn’t going to cut it, and the Hoosiers have now been blown out on their home floor by Illinois, and now this collapse against the Terps. If Woodson wants to hang around, he has to get Indiana to the NCAA tournament.
This team was one of the favorites to win the Big Ten coming into the season given their talent, but it’s very clear they aren’t living up to the hype. I don’t blame the Hoosier fans who were very clearly chanting ‘Fire Woodson!’ after the blowout loss to the Illini.
The Fire Woodson chants are breaking out at Assembly Hall
— Mark Titus Show (@MarkTitusShow) January 15, 2025
Call me crazy, but if he can’t get this Indiana team to the Big Dance, I’m afraid it’s time to make a change. Archie Miller only had four seasons, and he didn’t even make the dance. This is Indiana we are talking about, and there isn’t much of an excuse for them not to be in the hunt every season. Whatever ends up happening, it’s clear that Mike Woodson’s days at Indiana are pretty numbered at this point.
