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Indiana Basketball: 2018-19 season preview for the Hoosiers

By Lukas Harkins

BLOOMINGTON, IN - NOVEMBER 29: Indiana Hoosiers players react from the bench in the second half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils at Assembly Hall on November 29, 2017 in Bloomington, Indiana. Duke won 91-81. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
BLOOMINGTON, IN - NOVEMBER 29: Indiana Hoosiers players react from the bench in the second half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils at Assembly Hall on November 29, 2017 in Bloomington, Indiana. Duke won 91-81. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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BLOOMINGTON, IN – NOVEMBER 29: Indiana Hoosiers players react. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
BLOOMINGTON, IN – NOVEMBER 29: Indiana Hoosiers players react. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

Non-conference schedule breakdown

Even though the Big Ten is expected to be one of the best conferences in college basketball this year, a strong showing in non-conference play against quality opponents can go a long way in regards to NCAA Tournament seeding. Because of this, it is important for coaching staffs to secure high-quadrant matchups that impact the new rating system (NET) as well as impress those around the country.

On paper, it seems like the Hoosiers have put together an excellent non-conference schedule. Even though there are some “cupcake” matchups, Coach Miller has also lined up multiple opportunities for Quadrant 1 or 2 games before the turn of the New Year. Here are some of the most intriguing games on the schedule:

  • Nov. 14: vs. Marquette Golden Eagles (H)
  • Nov. 18: at Arkansas Razorbacks (A)
  • Nov. 27: at Duke Blue Devils (A)
  • Dec. 8: vs. Louisville Cardinals (H)
  • Dec. 15: vs. Butler Bulldogs (N)

All five of these games project as Quadrant 1 or 2 games and should therefore seriously bolster Indiana’s resume by the end of the season. And while the Hoosiers might not be favored in every game, there is a strong chance that they are favored in four of these five contests. And, if that is any indication, a 4-1 record against this group would be very impressive.

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