BBALLBREAKDOWN v.2 | Page 33

enough length and precise timing to still get his paws on a few balls. Bryant has his downsides: he’s thin, not a true center, and lacks upper-body strength. He isn’t particularly strong in the pickand-roll game, so don’t expect to see him on the perimeter too frequently. On the wings, O.G. Anunoby and Juwan Morgan are stud athletes, combining great length and size with a springy athleticism. Offensively, both will likely struggle in the halfcourt, but can add spot minutes in an up-tempo system. Their biggest assets will be on the defensive end, where Morgan will be able to come in and guard opposing power forwards. The Big Ten is loaded with teams that slow down the pace and pound the ball inside deliberately, leaving the Hoosiers as the ultimate mismatch in conference play. If they can reliably defend the interior, the Hoosiers could have a great deal of success in the conference. will come off the bench; either are capable of getting streaky and carrying the offense for spurts when one of the main options is having an off night. With all that offense and talent returning, Crean didn’t necessarily need a home run with his recruiting class—just an interior presence, depth, defensive versatility, and an ability to develop players if Williams or Blackmon look to go to the NBA this year. Freshman Thomas Bryant out of Huntington Prep is a legitimate 6-foot10 big man with skill on both ends of the court. He’s very good at scoring in the paint and can consistently hit a jumper at the elbows with range to the 3-point line. Best of all, Bryant defends and alters shots. He’s got very good footwork for someone his size, always jumps vertically to avoid fouls, and has “The offense will continue to be their calling card this season, as a trio of young guards anchor the team.” Defense and the new freshmen are the difference-makers for the Hoosiers. If they fix their culture, find leadership, defend reasonably well in the conference, and stay healthy, the Hoosiers could push for a top spot in the NCAA Tournament. Photo: Trevor Ruszkowski - USA TODAY Sports BBALLBREAKDOWN | 33