Hoosiers dominate Montana State
(Juwan Morgan posted a double-double in Indiana’s win over Montana State. Photo by: IDS)
By CALEB LYNN
ISL Contributor
BLOOMINGTON — The Indiana Hoosiers took control from the opening tip on Friday night, as defeated Montana State by a score of 80-35 at Assembly Hall.
Forward Juwan Morgan was a focal point as he put on a dominant performance inside the paint with 14 points and 11 rebounds for the Hoosiers. That performance led to his 10th double-double in his career, and it helped his teammates get some opportunities to create their own shots.
“Even if the ball was not coming to me,” Morgan said, “I could still set people up with just a hard seal to open up a lob for Romeo (Langford) or just a drive for Justin (Smith) to help us continue to be aggressive.”
Indiana Head Coach Archie Miller wanted Morgan to be a main emphasis in the offense and was pleased with the results of getting the ball down low to Morgan.
“It was a real emphasis coming out of Chicago State,” Miller said, “And it was good to see him pretty much dominate the paint tonight.”
🎥 Highlights from our 80-35 win over Montana State.#IUBB pic.twitter.com/jvK3zJtkWL
— Indiana Basketball (@IndianaMBB) November 10, 2018
Miller also assessed Justin Smith’s play as he dropped 13 points on 6- of- 8 shooting and thought that he showed confidence heading into Wednesday’s match-up against Marquette.
“He has been more confident in his finishing ability, and defensively he has been a lot better than he has ever been.”
Freshman Rob Phinisee gave IU some leadership at the point guard position as he contributed 12 points and led the team in plus-minus.
His play has led to somewhat of an increase for minutes due to Devonte Green battling through injuries and his teammates have been pleased with his performance.
“Rob has just came in ready for college basketball,” De’Ron Davis said, “He has been mentally tough and has made good decisions. He has stepped into his role with Devonte (Green) being hurt and he has seized the opportunity.”
Trayce Jackson-Davis talks IU recruitment with @Rivals– "They just really want me and Keion (Brooks) to stay in-state really bad and are doing whatever they can to make it possible.” He will be signing late.
— Indy Sports Legends (@Indy_Legends) November 8, 2018
One key stat in this game was that IU forced 25 Montana State turnovers and that led to 28 points for the Hoosiers. That was in the game plan for Coach Miller and he wanted that to be a focus.
“We worked hard defensively tonight,” Miller said, “We are going to try to keep being better and this team has to find a way to make its defense charge its offense every game.”
Another interesting note, was that the depth of Indiana was also in full force tonight. Over nine players received double-digit minutes. The depth of the Hoosiers will be a huge asset for the team this season.
This is the deepest IU has been in a long time. Could be a challenge for Archie Miller to find minutes and the right combinations. Good problem to have.
— Tyler Smith (@TylerSmith_ISL) November 7, 2018
With a 2-0 start to the season, the Hoosiers will face their first test Wednesday night, as they host Marquette. The game is set to tip at 8:30 PM.
