Indiana Basketball: 2020-21 keys to take down Butler in Crossroads Classic

1. The play of Trayce Jackson-Davis

It’s easy to put the star as a key to the game and go from there, but in all seriousness, Trayce Jackson-Davis has been a focal point for the Hoosiers and has thrived thus far in 2020.

For this game, in particular, it will be important Jackson-Davis stays out of foul trouble. He averages the most minutes on the team with over 31 minutes per game so his presence on the floor, period, is vital to the Hoosiers.

This is an interesting game in the fact that, due to COVID, there isn’t as much of a sample size when these two teams normally play.

Offensively, Butler ranks 310th in three-point field goals attempted; granted in large part to only playing two games, but a lot of their offense relies on dribble drives.

As mentioned, Jair Bolden shoots threes and he shoots them well. He represents 14 of the total 35 threes attempted through both games the Bulldogs have played.

Bryce Nze and Jackson-Davis will be in a battle most of the game. Staying out of foul trouble for each will be important for their teams.

For  Jackson-Davis on the offensive end, we know he’s bringing a near double-double average to the table. He averages 21 points, 8.7 rebounds, and is shooting over 50% from the floor. Bring that kind of average with you to Indianapolis, and the Hoosiers will look to put the other two keys together for a win.

Again, you look at Butler’s two games and you might think, IU wins this one handily. But it’s a rivalry game, and it’s the Crossroads Classic. Don’t get too cocky against this Butler team, they’re known to have surprised folks through the last decade.