Indiana Basketball: Keys for success on the road versus Purdue

2. Limit turnovers

In order to win the possession battle in this matchup, the Hoosiers will also need to limit their turnovers. Unlike other opponents on the schedule, Purdue almost never turns it over themselves and, therefore, Indiana will not be able to count on forcing mistakes. Statistically, the Hoosiers turn the ball over quite often (19.3% of possessions – 203rd nationally) while the Boilermakers do a great job forcing their opponents into mistakes (20.8% def. turnover rate – 82nd nationally). The numbers are not in IU’s favor in this part of the game but that does not mean that is how it will play out on the court.

With Rob Phinisee now back on the court, the Hoosiers have their complete backcourt back from injury and they should be able to play with poise against the Boilermakers. Knowing these numbers, though, it is reasonable to expect that Purdue head coach Matt Painter might draw up some different defensive looks to throw at IU’s guards. Phinisee, Langford, Aljami Durham, and Devonte Green will need to focus on not only seeking out open looks for themselves/teammates but also avoiding turnovers.

The Hoosiers, on the whole, have done a pretty good job limiting their turnovers in Big Ten play so far this season and they need to keep that streak going. To put it simply, Indiana is incredibly inconsistent when it comes to turning it over away from home. Four of their worst five games with regards to total turnovers came away from Assembly Hall but their two best games have also been on the road.