Indiana Basketball: Keys to success against Butler in 2018-19

2. Consistently knock down free throws

One of Indiana’s biggest strengths this season has been getting to the free throw line. With aggressive attacking guards and strong interior presences, the Hoosiers seemingly draw fouls at will inside. Most notably, star freshman Romeo Langford is attempting 7.1 free throw attempts per game so far this season. So even though IU does not jack up threes all that often (just 30.4% of FGA, 326th nationally), there is still a fairly high likelihood of a 3-point play on every possession.

To this point in the season, the Hoosiers rank 81st in the nation in free throw attempt rate and should have no trouble getting to the line against Butler. This is due to the fact that the Dawgs also commit more than their fair share of fouls (268th nationally in opponent FT rate). Statistically certainly suggest that Indiana has the potential to live at the free throw line this weekend.

If this is the case, though, the Hoosiers will still need to actually take advantage of their freebies in order to win the game. IU is shooting just 63.6% from the charity stripe so far this season and that mark ranks just 314th in the country. It is also important to mention that this ranking is not just dragged down by one poor shooter. In fact, the four Hoosiers that are attempting the most foul shots are all shooting below 70%.

As long as Indiana gets to the line and knocks down their free throws, they should be in great shape.