DeVries Plans Challenging Nonconference Schedule for Indiana Basketball

Darian DeVries has been introduced as Indiana's new men's basketball coach, succeeding Mike Woodson and aiming to restore the program's NCAA Tournament consistency. DeVries plans to focus on both immediate success and long-term sustainability by utilizing the transfer portal while also seeking multiyear recruits. His approach includes scheduling challenging nonconference games, with notable matchups against Marquette and Kentucky already confirmed. DeVries emphasizes the need for team cohesion rather than just assembling talent, drawing on his previous experiences at West Virginia and Drake where he successfully rebuilt rosters. Despite the excitement surrounding his hiring, there are concerns about whether he can navigate the competitive Big Ten landscape and effectively recruit amidst the current NIL dynamics. The Hoosiers are at a crossroads, facing significant roster changes and the challenge of retaining talent in a rapidly evolving college basketball environment.