Author: Gabby Har

One of the big storylines in the Big Ten basketball world is about the future of the Indiana Hoosiers.

Following the 2024-25 college basketball season, Mike Woodson will be out and the Hoosiers will be searching for a new head coach. Quite a few names have been thrown around as potential candidates so far.

Rick Pitino was even lightly suggested as a candidate for the job. That isn’t likely to happen, but there is no shortage of potential fits for Indiana.

That being said, Dick Vitale has now chimed in with his thoughts on the matter.

In his breakdown of who the Hoosiers should hire to replace Woodson, he suggested a name who is currently out of head coaching. He thinks former Virginia head coach Tony Bennett would be the right candidate for Indiana.

“If Tony Bennett decides to want to coach again Indiana should do whatever it takes to bring him to Bloomington,” Vitale wrote. “Absolutely the best available as he is a sure future Hall of Famer.”

Bennett would be a very intriguing candidate for the Hoosiers. He has a proven track record of college success, which is exactly what Indiana is expected to target. They don’t want to waste more time with a mistake hiring like Woodson has turned out to be.

During his time as the head basketball coach at Virginia, Bennett ended up compiling an impressive 364-136 record. He also led them to being the champions during the 2018-19 season.

Would he have interest in returning to coaching? That is the question. He was one of the coaches who found it difficult to keep coaching in the new world of the transfer portal and NIL.

If he is interested, this would be a blockbuster hire for the Hoosiers. Bennett is an elite head coach and as Vitale suggested is likely to end up being a Hall of Famer at some point in time. At the very least, Indiana should make a call and gauge his interest.

Only time will tell what the Hoosiers end up doing and who they hire, but Bennett should be added as one of the top potential candidates for the job.

ESPN commentator Dick Vitale recommends going after legendary UVA former head coach Tony Bennett for next season

Current Indiana Hoosiers head coach Mike Woodson will step down at the conclusion of the current season as Indiana has been struggling to find their identity all season.

The Hoosiers currently sit at a 15-11 overall record, 6-9 in Big Ten Conference play which leaves them 12th overall in the conf.

With Woodson stepping down and IU in danger of missing the 2025 NCAA Tournament, Indiana is already searching for a new head coach for the upcoming season.

ESPN’s legendary college hoops analyst Dick Vitale says the Indiana Hoosiers should look to hire former Virginia coach Tony Bennett, if he’s willing to come out of retirement.

If Tony Bennett decides to want to coach again Indiana should do whatever it takes to bring him to Bloomington,”Vitale posted on X. “Absolutely the best available as he is a sure future Hall of Famer.”

Bennett had major success at Virginia, he was considered one of the top coaches in college basketball at the time, winning the 2019 national championship, six ACC regular season titles, four ACC coach of the year awards and two national coach of the year awards.

Tony Bennett coached Virginia from 2010-24 and had a .728 win percentage, with a 364-136 overall record and 189-82 in ACC Conference play. He led the UVA Cavaliers to 10 NCAA Tournament appearances, including a fore mentioned national championship, an Elite Eight run and a Sweet 16 appearance.

Bennett started his career as an assistant at Washington State and Wisconsin. He also previously coached Washington State from 2006-09, going 69-33 with two NCAA Tournament appearances and a Sweet 16 berth.

If indiana can land Bennett who is 56, and grab him out retirement that would be a home run hire for the Hoosiers basketball program.

The coaching search will be one of the big storylines in the Big Ten and college basketball world in the off-season.

In a devastating turn of events, Gabe Cupps, the star player for the Indiana Hoosiers basketball team, has admitted to being involved in a drug trafficking operation. The young athlete, known for his remarkable skills on the court, has shocked both fans and the basketball community with this revelation.

Cupps, who had previously been heralded as a rising star with a bright future in college basketball, acknowledged his involvement in illegal activities during a recent investigation. The details surrounding his participation in the drug trafficking scheme remain under scrutiny, with authorities still piecing together how deeply involved the athlete was.

The admission has left the Indiana University community in disbelief. Cupps was considered one of the key players on the Hoosiers roster, having showcased his exceptional basketball talent in several high-profile games. His sudden fall from grace has raised serious concerns about the pressures and challenges faced by athletes, particularly those in high-stress college programs.

The university has yet to release an official statement on Cupps’ future with the team. However, it is expected that the athlete will face severe consequences, both from the legal system and the NCAA. Indiana Hoosiers head coach Mike Woodson expressed his disappointment, stating that the news was “heartbreaking” and that the team would need time to process the situation.

This shocking development has left fans, teammates, and coaches alike reeling. While Cupps had the potential to go far in his career, this revelation has undoubtedly changed the course of his future. The case is still under investigation, and more details are expected to emerge in the coming weeks.

Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Nico Iamaleava was left speechless and emotionally overwhelmed after receiving a heartwarming surprise from one of his top fans. The moment took place during a special event organized to celebrate Iamaleava’s success and growing influence both on and off the field.

As part of a gesture to acknowledge Iamaleava’s hard work, dedication, and his incredible potential as a player, a loyal fan presented him with a brand-new car. The surprise, arranged by a Tennessee booster, was a grand display of support for the highly-touted freshman quarterback, who has quickly become a fan favorite in Knoxville.

When the keys to the car were handed to Iamaleava, his initial reaction was one of shock, as he was visibly moved by the gesture. Overcome with emotion, the young athlete struggled to find the right words, expressing his gratitude and disbelief. His eyes welled up as he spoke about how much this act of kindness meant to him and how it was a testament to the incredible support he has from the Vols fanbase.

“I can’t believe this is happening,” Iamaleava said. “I’m so thankful to be a part of this amazing community and to have fans who believe in me like this. It’s more than just a car; it’s a reminder that I’m not alone in this journey.”

The car gift is just the latest in a series of emotional moments for Iamaleava, who has been praised for his leadership and maturity on the field. As he prepares for the upcoming season, it’s clear that Iamaleava’s bond with Tennessee fans is stronger than ever.

In an emotional moment that left University of Oklahoma softball star Jordy Bahl in tears, the young athlete was surprised by one of her top fans with an incredible gift – a brand new car. Bahl, who has become a household name thanks to her stellar performance on the field, was caught off guard when the fan, who has supported her since her high school days, handed her the keys to the vehicle.

The surprise occurred during a small gathering organized by Bahl’s fan base, where the star pitcher was invited for what she thought would be a routine meet-and-greet. As she entered the venue, her fans and teammates cheered, but it was the sight of the car in the parking lot that truly overwhelmed her. The car, a sleek and modern model, was emblazoned with the Sooners’ colors, a gesture of loyalty and admiration from the supporter.

Jordy, visibly emotional, took a moment to compose herself before addressing the crowd. “This means so much to me. I’ve worked so hard, but knowing I have such amazing people in my corner makes it all worth it,” Bahl said through tears.

Her journey from a promising high school athlete to a key player for OU has garnered widespread attention, but this gesture exemplified the deep connection she shares with her fans. The overwhelming support she receives is a testament to the pride Oklahomans have for their athletes, as well as the powerful bond between them and the community.

Bahl’s new car is not just a symbol of her success, but also a reminder of the impact one person’s generosity can have on someone’s life. This unforgettable moment will certainly be one of the most memorable in her young career.

NORMAN — No. 3 Oklahoma Softball was well represented in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Softball weekly awards listing as sophomore Ella Parker was tabbed as Co-SEC Softball Player of the Week and senior Sam Landry was selected as SEC Co-Pitcher of the Week as announced Monday, Feb. 17.

It’s Parker’s second selection in as many weeks, while Landry picked up Oklahoma Softball’s first-ever weekly pitching honor as a member of the SEC. The senior was honored as Sun Belt Pitcher of the Week seven times at Louisiana before transferring to OU prior to the 2025 season.

Oklahoma went 4-0 at the Getterman Classic hosted by Baylor this past weekend, earning four run-rule victories. The Sooners defeated Hofstra and No. 23/24 Baylor twice apiece, moving to 10-0 on the season for the fourth time in five years.

Parker was all over opposing pitching, hitting .750 (9-for-12) with nine runs, six RBIs, two doubles, two home runs and a walk. She homered twice against Hofstra in an 8-0 win and hit safely in all four games, posting three multi-hit performances.

The sophomore is leading the SEC in batting average (.647) as well as hits (22) and doubles (7). Parker is riding a 10-game hitting streak, while also having scored in nine of 10 games

Landry locked down Baylor with 5.1 perfect innings across two appearances in OU’s perfect weekend. The righty twirled a five-inning perfect game in an 8-0 win against No. 23/24 Baylor, while retiring the only batter she faced in game one against the Bears.

The senior struck out eight and needed only 61 pitches across the two games. She fired 42 strikes in 56 pitches to the plate in her perfect game, which was the 23rd perfect game in program history and the second this season.

Landry is 2-0 with a 1.72 earned run average and 31 strikeouts in 20.1 innings. She has only allowed 14 hits and two walks in five appearances.

As the excitement of March Madness looms, Duke’s highly anticipated freshmen are about to face their biggest test yet. Cooper Flagg, one of the most talked-about recruits in recent memory, will take center stage at Madison Square Garden (MSG) this week. The young star has been dazzling with his blend of athleticism, defensive prowess, and versatility. However, the spotlight will only intensify as he and his fellow freshmen prepare for the chaos that typically accompanies the NCAA Tournament.

The critics are buzzing, questioning whether these first-year players can live up to the hype when it matters most. While Flagg has impressed during the regular season, many are unsure whether he can sustain his level of performance under the pressure and intensity of March Madness. Playing at MSG, one of basketball’s most iconic venues, adds another layer of pressure, with the crowd’s energy and the heightened expectations all on display.

Duke’s talented rookie class, led by Flagg, has shown flashes of brilliance, but the path to glory in the NCAA Tournament is fraught with challenges. With the tournament’s unpredictable nature and the best teams gearing up for a battle of epic proportions, Flagg and the Blue Devils must prove they have what it takes to succeed under pressure.

Duke’s seasoned coaching staff, led by Jon Scheyer, is known for its ability to develop young talent in high-pressure environments, and this March Madness will serve as a true test of their ability to navigate the madness and advance deep into the tournament. The nation’s eyes will be on MSG, eagerly waiting to see if the Blue Devils’ freshmen are ready to rise to the occasion or if the chaos of March will be too much for them to handle.

Duke coach Jon Scheyer is “optimistic” that versatile forward Maliq Brown will return this season from a shoulder injury.

The 6-foot-9 junior was hurt after playing just 10 minutes in the third-ranked Blue Devils’ win at Virginia on Monday. He appeared to injure his left arm reaching into a passing lane to deflect a ball, and had his arm in a sling afterward.

Scheyer said Thursday that medical imaging had found nothing unexpected with what he described as a dislocated shoulder. The Blue Devils (23-3, 15-1 Atlantic Coast Conference) step out of league play to face the Big Ten’s Illinois in New York’s Madison Square Garden on Saturday night.

“We’re optimistic that we can get him back this season,” Scheyer said in a virtual call with reporters. “I think the hardest part is, a lot of it has to do with his stability, which right now he’s pretty sore still. So we have to see how much time that takes.”

Scheyer said Brown won’t play “in the next week or so at minimum” and estimated he’d be out a few weeks. Duke has just five games left in the regular season.

Brown, a transfer from Syracuse, averages just 2.5 points and 4.1 rebounds. But his value has gone beyond raw numbers; his ability to switch and defend multiple positions off the bench has been a key piece of a defense that ranks fourth nationally in KenPom’s adjusted efficiency metrics by allowing 90.9 points per 100 possessions.

Brown had recently returned from a four-game absence because of a knee injury.

It’s fair to say Kenny Brooks made a major splash in his first season as the Kentucky Wildcats women’s head basketball coach.

From the beginning, it was clear that Brooks had a plan to get talented players to join him in Lexington.

Centered around superstar Georgia Amoore, Kentucky’s roster is littered with talent at each position in Year 1 of the Brooks era.

Sure, it’s Georgia Amoore who leads the team in scoring at nearly 20 ppg, but sophomore Clara Strack is a powerful force in the middle, averaging just under a double-double with 14.7 points and 9.3 rebounds per game.

Sitting at 20-4 on the season, Brooks has already proven that he’s the right man for the job, but in college basketball, nothing is more important than the results you put up in March.

The Cats have four games remaining this season and can count on being underdogs in three of those.

We’ve heard all season long about how good the SEC is in men’s basketball, but the remaining schedule illustrates that the league is extremely difficult for them as well.

Currently, Kentucky is 9-3 in conference play, landing them in fourth place, trailing the Texas Longhorns by 2.5 games.

There is still a lot of basketball to be played, and UK could see their SEC tournament seed rise or fall depending on league results these last two weeks.

Regardless of where they’re seeded, I don’t believe any team in America wants to see Kentucky in their path to a Final Four.

Georgia Amoore appears poised to make a statement in what will be her final season as a collegiate athlete.

With her ability to score 30+ on any night, you can never count these Cats out.

Oklahoma coach Patty Gasso said her redshirt junior outfielder suffered an ankle sprain in the Sooners’ second game of the year against San Diego State.

Oklahoma outfielder Hannah Coor is nearing a return.

Coor exited OU’s second game of the season against San Diego State after she appeared to injure her ankle while on second base.

“Nothing is broken, which it good,” Sooners coach Patty Gasso said on Tuesday. “It was just a really hard sprain.”

Gasso said Coor’s ankle was in a protective boot, and while there isn’t a set timeline, she will be back in the lineup this season.

“I think she’s going to get out of the boot this week and doing rehab at least twice a day,” Gasso said. “So she’s not too far. She’s definitely going to be back in commission.”

She had gone 2-for-4 with an RBI before the injury.

Coor did not appear in OU’s other four games throughout the Sooners’ opening weekend, and she was absent in the lineup during the Getterman Classic last weekend in Waco.

The redshirt junior has previously battled back issues in her Oklahoma career.

She made 63 appearances last year for the Sooners, primarily as a defensive replacement, but she went .211 at the plate in 38 at-bats with eight RBIs, two doubles, one walk and she was hit by two pitches.

Coor only made four appearances in 2023, and she played in 40 games in 2022.

Without Coor, Ella Parker sa

w more action in the outfield which allowed freshmen infielders Sydney Barker and Gabbie Garcia to switch between starting at shortstop and designated player.