Malik Reneau tried to console him. Walking near midcourt at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall, Reneau offered a hug, a pat on the chest and words of encouragement.

But Mackenzie Mgbako couldn’t shake the sting of what had happened moments prior. After grabbing an offensive rebound with 10 seconds remaining, Mgbako watched his game-tying layup attempt trickle around the rim and miss. From the bench, Gabe Cupps stood with his hands on his head in disbelief.

Roughly three seconds later, the ball was again in Mgbako’s hands, again with a chance to tie or take the lead. He spotted up from beyond the arc — not a defender in sight to contest — and launched what could’ve been the game-winning triple.

The ball rimmed out. Indiana fell 72-68 Friday night to UCLA, marking a fourth consecutive loss in Bloomington.

It was the look Indiana wanted.

It still wasn’t enough.

“That’s a shot he normally makes,” Woodson said postgame. “He just didn’t make it.”

Such has been the theme of the Hoosiers’ late-game misfortunes this season. Shots that should be made aren’t. Plays that should be made aren’t. Take Indiana’s loss to Maryland on Jan. 26. Myles Rice was supposed to curl around a screen from Reneau on the final possession, but he stayed in the corner and hurled a hotly contested 3-pointer instead.

The Hoosiers had their chances against Northwestern in a 79-70 loss four days prior. Then had even more chances in West Lafayette against Purdue. Then, against Michigan. Then…

The picture should be pretty clear. Indiana players were not available to the media Friday night, leaving Woodson to try to explain why this keeps occurring: how, in late-game situations, the Hoosiers just can’t seem to find a solution.

“I wish I had the answer,” Woodson said, echoing the same sentiment he’s offered in recent weeks. “I go back to the Northwestern game, the Maryland game, Purdue game, Michigan game — all winnable games. If you win one or two of them, you’re feeling good about yourself when you’re in close games. Nine out of ten times, you make the plays that you need to make.”

Mike Woodson’s coaching tenure at Indiana will end upon the conclusion of this season as he eyes retirement. But the Hoosiers still have five regular season games remaining, plus any potential Big Ten and NCAA Tournament games with Woodson leading the Hoosiers.

It’s a situation that cannot be easy for anyone involved, including the players and coaching staff. However, in an attempt to send Woodson out on a high note, the Hoosiers are trying to rally and make one last push for the NCAA Tournament, which mark three March Madness appearances in four years under Woodson.

“If we can go out the right way for Coach Woodson and be in the tournament three out of four years here, I’m fine with that,” IU associated head coach Kenya Hunter said on a Monday radio show.

Indiana has work to do if it’s going to be in contention for an NCAA Tournament bid on Selection Sunday, though. According to Bracket Matrix, IU is currently included in only four NCAA Tournament projections out of 97 updated brackets. As of Tuesday morning, IU sits at No. 57 in the NET rankings with a 2-11 record against Quad-1 opponents.

“Our goal is still to make it to the NCAA Tournament,” Hunter said. “I look back and I say this is our fourth year here with Coach Woodson, and our goal was to make it to the NCAA Tournament. And if we can leave Coach Woodson — he would’ve been to the NCAA Tournament three out of the four years here at Indiana, when is the last time that’s been done at Indiana? It’s been a while.”

During Woodson’s coaching tenure, Indiana made consecutive NCAA Tournaments in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons after missing the Big Dance in the previous five seasons before his arrival. The Hoosiers struggled in the 2023-24 season and received an NIT invitation, which it ultimately declined.

The Hoosiers still have a chance to get back to the NCAA Tournament this season, but it will necessitate a bounce-back effort after losing eight of its last 10 games. IU has two more Quad-1 opportunities in the regular season against No. 13 Purdue on Sunday and at Oregon on March 4, coupled with potential Big Ten Tournament matchups.

“I think if we take care of business in these last five games and we go to the tournament and we’re able to make the tournament,” Hunter said, “then that’s three out of four years (Woodson) has gone to the tournament, knowing that last year we had injuries that hampered us and still was very close to making the tournament. That’s a hell of an accomplishment for him, and that’s the way we’d like to send him out.”

Indiana still hasn’t given up on this season despite the circumstances currently facing it. While IU’s on-court results continue to struggle and its coaching search rolls along, the Hoosiers are trying to remain positive and keep the NCAA Tournament at the front of their minds.

“As far as our coaching staff, that’s something that we’ve mentioned and talked about,” Hunter said. “And I think it would be a hell of a thing if we can accomplish that in these last five games.”

BREAKING NEWS: Indiana Basketball Rehires Former Head Coach Tom Crean Following Mike W Rehires oodson’s Departure Due to Health Concerns

In a surprising turn of events, Indiana University has announced the rehiring of Tom Crean as the head coach of the Hoosiers men’s basketball team. This move comes after Mike Woodson officially stepped down due to health-related concerns, leaving the program in need of stable leadership.

Woodson, who led the Hoosiers for three seasons, made significant strides with the program, including multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. However, the 66-year-old coach cited health challenges as the primary reason for his decision to step away, expressing gratitude to the team and fans for their support during his tenure.

The return of Tom Crean marks a homecoming for the coach who previously helmed the Hoosiers from 2008 to 2017. During his nine seasons, Crean revitalized the program, leading the team to two Big Ten titles and multiple NCAA Tournament runs, including a Sweet Sixteen appearance in 2012.

Indiana Athletic Director Scott Dolson stated, “Tom Crean’s passion for Indiana basketball and his proven track record make him the ideal choice to guide the team during this transition. We are excited to welcome him back to Bloomington.”

Crean, who most recently served as a college basketball analyst following a coaching stint at Georgia, expressed enthusiasm about his return. “Indiana has always held a special place in my heart,” he said. “I’m honored to have the opportunity to lead this program again and help our student-athletes achieve their full potential.”

The Hoosier Nation has met the news with mixed reactions, with some fans thrilled about Crean’s return and others questioning the decision. Regardless, the program looks forward to a new chapter under a familiar leader.

Indiana basketball’s head coach opening is at the top of all Hoosier fans minds and one college basketball’s biggest storylines currently. Following IU’s announcement last week that Mike Woodson will not return as head coach next season, it quickly kicked the coaching carousel into high gear for what will be one of the most sought-after jobs available in the offseason.

Indiana didn’t have to look far Friday night for one of its potential top candidates as UCLA head coach Mick Cronin and his Bruins traveled to Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington. Cronin, a midwest native and former Cincinnati head coach, led UCLA to a 72-68 road win over Indiana.

Cronin has expressed desire in the past of potentially moving closer to home in the midwest after coaching at UCLA since 2019. The 53-year-old Cronin has compiled a 498-230 (68.4%) record as a head coach, making stops at Murray State from 2003-06, Cincinnati (2006-19) and UCLA (2019-present). Cronin led UCLA to the Final Four in 2021, was twice named Pac-12 Coach of the Year in 2020 and 2023, and has guided his teams to eight conference regular season and tournament championships.

After UCLA’s win over Indiana, Cronin was asked about his interest, if any, in the Indiana job.

“As far as me, I would never comment on a coaching situation,” Cronin said. “It would be wildly inappropriate, because I’m the son of a coach, and the way I look at it is that Mike Woodson’s the coach of Indiana. That man’s coaching this basketball team… I have tremendous respect for the kids and their team, and to me, no one should say anything that distracts them with that.”

Cronin was then asked about his inclusion on several Indiana coaching hot boards and if he pays any attention to it.

“Here’s how I look at that stuff: I might on your hot boards, (UCLA fans) might want my ass fired on our hot boards,” Cronin said. “That’s how I look at it. I stay off the hot boards. That’s just the way it is. You can go from one board to the other real quick, hiring and firing.”

As one of the highest profile programs in college basketball, the Indiana men’s basketball job opening is bound to generate headlines and takes from some of the most visible people who talk about the sport.

Take, for instance, Jon Rothstein of CBS Sports.

Rothstein, known for his Twitter persona, breaking news and overall presence in the college basketball media scene, weighed in on the Indiana job recently and said the following:

“Indiana has been to the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament four times since 1994,” Rothstein said. “Indiana, if you look at the coaches that have been there since Bob Knight, nothing has ever been good enough. Mike Davis went to four NCAA Tournaments in six years. He was asked to go. And that included a trip to the national title game in 2002. Kelvin Sampson was removed from his post after a couple years after obviously he broke NCAA rules which obviously, in typical NCAA fashion, shortly after were ruled legal. Then, Tom Crean. Three Sweet Sixteens, two outright Big Ten regular season titles and in his last year Indiana was 13=6 with wins over Kansas and [North] Carolina when OG Anunoby tore his ACL. There was an appetite for change, they went and they hired Archie Miller, who was the hot young coach on the rise. He didn’t go to the NCAA Tournament, so they wanted somebody who could make the NCAA Tournament and bring back, obviously, the gap that existed between Indiana and its fanbase. Mike Woodson then followed somebody who didn’t go to the NCAA Tournament, won a game in the first year in the First Four against Wyoming, won a game in his second year against Kent State and now all of a sudden he misses last year and this year this is a team, again, that’s still probably five, six, seven spots away from Dayton and the school opts to force him out in mid-February.”

“So my question is this,” Rothstein said. “Why all of a sudden, if those are the facts, is Indiana such a great basketball job?”

Trey Galloway, a standout player for the Indiana Hoosiers men’s basketball team, recently opened up about his journey and the dreams he’s fulfilled over the course of his career. Reflecting on his time at Indiana, Galloway expressed immense gratitude, calling his experience with the Hoosiers “a career dream come true.”

Galloway, a guard from Culver, Indiana, has been an integral part of the team since joining in 2020. His work ethic and leadership on and off the court have not only solidified his place in the starting lineup but have made him a fan favorite. Despite facing various challenges, including injuries and fierce competition for playing time, Galloway has remained determined and focused on his ultimate goal: helping Indiana reach new heights in college basketball.

“Being here, being part of such a storied program, it’s everything I’ve dreamed of,” Galloway said. “From growing up watching Indiana basketball to being on the court in Assembly Hall, it’s surreal. So, no matter what happens, I can’t give up now. The journey’s been worth it, and it’s only going to get better.”

Galloway’s determination is evident in his work ethic. His consistent improvement, both offensively and defensively, has made him a key figure for the Hoosiers in their quest for Big Ten championships and NCAA Tournament success. He remains committed to his teammates, his coaches, and the program that has given him the chance to shine on a national stage.

With his eyes firmly set on achieving even greater success, Galloway’s story serves as an inspiring reminder of how dedication and resilience can turn dreams into reality.

The Indiana Hoosiers’ basketball program is facing a significant setback as key player Trey Galloway has been suspended indefinitely. The announcement has left Hoosiers fans devastated, with many expressing their disappointment on social media.

Galloway, known for his dynamic presence on the court, has been an integral part of the team this season. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively has made him one of the most versatile players in Indiana’s lineup. The suspension comes at a crucial point in the season, as the Hoosiers are gearing up for a series of critical matchups in the Big Ten conference.

The university has not disclosed specific details regarding the reasons for the suspension, fueling speculation among fans and analysts alike. Some have speculated that it could be related to off-the-court issues, but no official statement has been made. In response, many supporters have flooded social media platforms with messages of concern and hope for Galloway’s quick return.

Fans are particularly concerned about how the suspension will impact the team’s overall performance. Galloway’s leadership, playmaking ability, and defensive prowess have made him a fan favorite, and his absence leaves a significant void on the court. Coach Mike Woodson and the Hoosiers’ coaching staff now face the challenge of finding a way to fill that gap, while also supporting Galloway through whatever personal challenges he may be facing.

As the news sinks in, the Hoosiers’ faithful remain hopeful for a swift resolution to Galloway’s situation, and for the team to overcome this obstacle in their pursuit of a successful season.

The Indiana Hoosiers basketball program will be honoring Black History Month with their new jersey’s that can be found here at the Adidas shop online.

The Adidas and Indiana collaboration for Black History Month first happened during the 2023 season. Indiana and Adidas released their first jersey’s Honoring Black Excellence uniforms with white jerseys and a flower pattern behind the letters and numbering.

Indiana was also selected by Adidas to be one of just two programs to wear last year’s limited “Fear of God” uniforms. Adidas has been in a partnership with the Indiana Hoosiers for all apparel since 2004, and partnered for a 10 year and extension this past summer.

The women’s basketball team wore their uniforms Thursday against Rutgers in a 80-61 win, and the men’s team will wear them Feb. 14th when they take on the UCLA Bruins at 8pm E.T.

Indiana WBB is 15-9 overall and 7-5 in Big Ten conference play fighting for their lives to make the NCAA Tournament. While the Indiana MBB team is under turmoil with head coach Mike Woodson resigning at the end of the season and despite its 14-10 record., they have lo

Indiana Hoosiers men’s basketball coach Mike Woodson is not expected to return following the 2024-25 college basketball season, according to multiple reports. FOX Sports confirmed the report on Thursday evening.

Woodson, who turns 67 in March, has been Indiana’s head coach the past three-plus seasons, with the program going a combined 77-49 and making the NCAA Tournament twice (2022 and 2023). That 2022 tournament appearance was the first for the Hoosiers in six years (2016).

Indiana entered this season with sky-high expectations, ranked No. 17 in the preseason AP Top 25 Poll after bringing in one of the top transfer portal classes in the country, headlined by former Arizona big man Oumar Ballo and point guard Myles Rice from Washington State.

However, after starting the season 13-3 and 4-1 in conference play, the Hoosiers have lost four consecutive games and six of their last seven, currently sitting at 14-9 overall and 5-7 in Big Ten play, good for 12th in the conference standings. They’re listed as one of the “next four teams out” in FOX Sports’ Michael DeCourcy’s latest NCAA tournament projections.

Indiana, one of the most storied programs in college basketball history, hasn’t appeared in the Final Four since 2002 and hasn’t won a national championship since 1987, when they were under the tutelage of Hall of Fame head coach Bob Knight.

Woodson was a guard at Indiana from 1976-80. He ranks third in program history with 1,224 career minutes played, tied for seventh with 714 points and tied for eighth with 53 steals. He was selected by the New York Knicks with the No. 12 pick in the 1980 NBA Draft and went on to play 11 seasons in the NBA, averaging a combined 14.0 points per game.

After an NBA career that included 11 years as a player and 25 years as a head coach and assistant coach, Woodson was hired by the Hoosiers in 2021 to replace Archie Miller.