**Indiana Opens Season With 80-61 Win Over SIU Edwardsville**

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Post on Nov 07, 2024

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Hoosiers Roll Past SIUE in Season Opener

The Indiana Hoosiers kicked off their 2023-2024 season with a resounding 80-61 victory over the SIU Edwardsville Cougars on Tuesday night at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington, Indiana. The win showcased Indiana's depth and offensive firepower, setting a positive tone for the season ahead.

A Balanced Offensive Attack

The Hoosiers didn't rely on a single star, instead displaying a balanced scoring attack. Trayce Jackson-Davis, the reigning Big Ten Player of the Year, led the way with 18 points and 10 rebounds, recording a double-double in his first game of the season.

Jalen Hood-Schifino, a sophomore guard who transferred from Florida, impressed in his Indiana debut with 16 points and 6 assists. Tamar Bates chipped in with 13 points, and Trey Galloway added 11. The balanced scoring effort prevented the Cougars from focusing on any one player, making it difficult for them to find a defensive rhythm.

Strong Defensive Performance

The Hoosiers weren't just dominant offensively; they also showcased their defensive prowess. Indiana held SIUE to just 35.3% shooting from the field, including a paltry 23.1% from three-point range. The Cougars struggled to penetrate Indiana's defense, and the Hoosiers forced 18 turnovers.

A Promising Start

This opening night win was a positive sign for Indiana. Despite losing key players from last year's team, the Hoosiers showed they have the talent and depth to compete in the highly competitive Big Ten conference. The balanced scoring, strong defense, and early game leadership from Jackson-Davis and Hood-Schifino are all encouraging indicators for the season ahead.

Looking Ahead

The Hoosiers will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for their next game against a formidable opponent: No. 1 ranked Kansas in the Hoosier Classic on Friday night. The matchup will be a true test of Indiana's mettle, and it will be a chance for the team to show they are capable of competing with the best in the country.

Key Takeaways:

• Balanced scoring: The Hoosiers proved they have a deep offensive arsenal with multiple scoring threats.
• Strong defense: Indiana's stifling defense forced turnovers and limited SIUE's scoring opportunities.
• Early leadership: Jackson-Davis and Hood-Schifino showcased their leadership abilities, setting the tone for the team.
• Promising future: The win against SIUE indicates that the Hoosiers are a strong contender in the Big Ten and beyond.

The Indiana Hoosiers are off to a strong start, and their upcoming matchup against Kansas will be a defining moment in their season. With a talented roster and a promising start, Indiana looks to be a force to be reckoned with in 2023-2024.