Indiana rolls Minnesota 80-54
By CALEB LYNN
ISL Correspondent
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. __ Indiana beat Minnesota 80-54 on Friday night for their 100th win all time against the Golden Gophers.
New starting point guard Devonte Green had 19 points and seven assists, and his selflessness helped the Hoosiers dish out 21 assists to four for Minnesota.
“I’m not trying to make a home run play,” Green said. “Not trying to make a difficult play. Just seeing what’s there and making that play.”
Juwan Morgan once again proved to be a reliable player with 19 points, nine boards and five assists. Senior leader Robert Johnson had 11 points, five rebounds, four assists and no turnovers.
5⃣ of last night’s top plays with Don Fischer on the mic 🎙 #FischersFive #IUBB pic.twitter.com/piAmJwuC5x
— Indiana Basketball (@IndianaMBB) February 10, 2018
There was no double-double for Freddie McSwain – he had just eight points and seven rebounds – but his steady improvement has been huge for the Hoosiers.
“Holds his own every single game,” Indiana coach Archie Miller said.
Indiana played as a team and lessened its mistakes. The Hoosiers only had seven turnovers and shot 54 percent while holding Minnesota to 31 percent shooting. Jordan Murphy, who was averaging a double-double for Minnesota did not find his rhythm and finished with 12 points and nine rebounds.
Miller said the defense is coming around.
“Their energy level is up. Guys are really working on the ball, which we have struggled with at times this year… From an energy level off the ball, guys are really aware.”
The Hoosiers off the bench came in ready to play when their number was called on and put in great games. Justin Smith, who had a career high against Minnesota last time out, showed some good touch around the basket with nine points and four rebounds. Guards Al Durham and Josh Newkirk also were solid.
Indiana will seek its third straight win Wednesday against Illinois.
