College basketball on FOX broadcaster and reporter John Fanta spent Monday at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington watching practice and talking to players and staff members.
He reported his observations on social media.
Here’s what Fanta said on Monday on his X page about the 2024-25 Hoosiers:
On Washington State transfer point guard Myles Rice:
“The immediate takeaway from Indiana practice: Myles Rice’s leadership. He’s talking a ton on both ends and is so crafty. A blur in transition. Once he gets in the open floor, something productive happens either for him or his teammates. Averaged 14.8 PPG, 3.8 APG last year. Stud.”
On what Malik Reneau says has changed year-over-year:
“Malik Reneau told me the big difference for this Indiana team from last yr is the perimeter. He said when there’s pressure in the post, he feels like there’s multiple go-to options that can drill the 3. Luke Goode will deliver in that column & Mackenzie Mgbako’s evolved his shot.”
On Arizona transfer center Oumar Ballo:
“This doesn’t come as a surprise, but Oumar Ballo is dominating this Indiana practice. His physicality and presence inside makes him such a tough cover. Will be a double-double machine for the Hoosiers as he was at Arizona. Another takeaway: He’s made strides as a passer.”
On Stanford transfer guard Kanaan Carlyle:
“Kanaan Carlyle is really tough to contain off the dribble with his quickness. The key for the Stanford transfer: Will he make people pay when he’s left open from downtown? He’s worked a lot on the shot over the summer. If he’s connecting, it gives Indiana a different dimension.”
On freshman wing Bryson Tucker:
“Indiana 4-star freshman Bryson Tucker will help the Hoosiers as a reserve this year and some around the program believe he’s got the most pro upside on this roster. The 6-7 wing has added around 15 pounds of muscle since arriving to IU. Can attack off the dribble at a high level.”
On sophomore forward Mackenzie Mgbako:
“Mackenzie Mgbako looks as advertised as the reigning Big Ten Co-Freshman of the Year. He grew to 6-foot-9 over the summer, added muscle to his frame + has impressed in Indiana’s practice session. He checks off so many boxes and his ability to make 3s is pivotal for the Hoosiers.”
Catching up with Indiana senior Luke Goode, who dreamed of putting on the Hoosiers uniform when he was growing up. He was first recruited to Bloomington by a player, and he details that story here. Plus, his thoughts on the potential of this Indiana team. Our conversation: pic.twitter.com/uvZs3nFcsw
— John Fanta (@John_Fanta) October 21, 2024
Checking in from Bloomington with takeaways from Indiana practice. The Hoosiers are stacked with talented pieces: pic.twitter.com/botOIPUEc3
— John Fanta (@John_Fanta) October 21, 2024
For complete coverage of IU basketball, GO HERE.
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