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Indiana State Basketball: 2021-22 season preview and outlook for Sycamores

By Harry Schroeder

Mar 5, 2021; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Indiana State Sycamores guard Julian Larry (10) drives to the basket as Evansville Aces guard Jawaun Newton (3) defends during the second half at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 5, 2021; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Indiana State Sycamores guard Julian Larry (10) drives to the basket as Evansville Aces guard Jawaun Newton (3) defends during the second half at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports /
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Indiana State Sycamores guard Cooper Neese (4) Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports
Indiana State Sycamores guard Cooper Neese (4) Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports /

2021-22 outlook for Indiana State basketball

Josh Schertz’s first season will be an interesting one. We know very little about most of his players, his system will be unique to the Valley and this will be the Sycamores’ first season with a significant fan presence in the renovated Hulman Center.

Preseason injuries are slowing the continuity and role definitions on this mystery team. Questions abound about the abilities of Schertz’s three D2 transfers. Will Tyreke Key, who has battled injuries hold up for one more season? Former coach Greg Lansing thought Key should turn professional because of the wear and tear on his body.

Schertz’s pressure defense could be the great equalizer. Most Missouri Valley teams play a more traditional style of defense than what Schertz applies. The Valley is known for its defense, but his style of defense and fast-break offense will be unique in this league.

If Stephens is as good as Lansing thought he was when he recruited him, and Larry turns into the point guard the former coach believed he was, this could be a very competitive team. With a Sycamore hall-of-famer in Key and some contributions from the newcomers, they could surprise unsuspecting teams.

dark. Next. Preseason Missouri Valley power rankings for 2021-22

However, with a difficult non-conference schedule and some nagging injuries, this could be a season of development rather than a year of celebrations.