The Indiana Hoosiers look to continue their winning ways after beating Ohio State while Minnesota looks to rebound after a brutal loss to Illinois.
TV schedule: Sunday, January 9th at 12 P.M on the Big Ten Network
Arena: Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall
Trayce Jackson-Davis Jr looks to build off his last performance in this conference match-up. Jackson Davis Jr scored 27 points and 11 rebounds in his last performance. On the year, the preseason All-American is averaging 19 points and 8 rebounds per game. Due to Jackson Davis Jr play, the Hoosiers are 11-3 on the season.
Although Jackson Davis jr has produced plenty of offensive for this team, the Hoosiers are looking for more offensive production from other players. One player that could step up in this matchup is Race Thompson. Race Thompson has been an efficient role player for this team all season. On the year, Race Thompson is averaging 10 points per game. Although Thompson has been good all year, the Hoosiers offensive production lacks when not depending on Jackson Davis Jr. This is because Thompson can’t create his own shot.
The Hoosiers defense has been one of the best in the Nation. Indiana’s defense allows 60 points per game. The defense is anchored by TJD. On the season, TJD is averaging 3.2 blocks per game. One thing to watch for in this game is how Minnesota is able to score against this Indiana defense.
If Minnesota does want to compete in this game, Jamison Battle will need to have a big performance. The transfer from George Washington is averaging 18 points per game on 48 percent shooting. In their last loss to Illinois, Battle was limited to only 10 points.
On the season, the Gophers are 10-2 with losses coming to Michigan State and Illinois. Minnesota has not had a marquee win all season with their best win coming against a 7-6 Michigan squad. Minnesota looks for their first real win all season in this matchup.
Indiana will probably beat Minnesota handly, as they look to make a run for the NCAA tournament.
Prediction: Indiana 65 Minnesota 50