As the Indiana Hoosiers prepare for the 2025-26 basketball season, they are entering with a roster bolstered by experienced players and a new head coach, Darian DeVries. The team stands out as the only program bringing in at least ten transfers with over 30 collegiate starts. DeVries, who boasts an impressive career record of 169-68 over seven seasons, ranks sixth among active NCAA Division I coaches for his winning percentage with a significant number of wins.
Despite bringing a seasoned lineup and a proven coach, Indiana has not made the cut in traditional preseason rankings such as the AP and Coaches Polls and is viewed as a long shot to contend for the top in the Big Ten. Various analysts and computer models have weighed in, providing insights into what the season may hold for the Hoosiers.
ESPN’s Jay Bilas has positioned Indiana at No. 36 nationally and No. 9 in the Big Ten, emphasizing the potential for the Hoosiers to emerge as a bubble team under DeVries, particularly with the presence of Tucker DeVries, a two-time Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year. Jeff Borzello and Myron Medcalf of ESPN echoed this sentiment, labeling Indiana as a “dangerous bubble team” despite losing several key players from the previous season.
CBS Sports ranked Indiana No. 11 in the Big Ten, highlighting their skilled roster and prolific shooters like Tucker DeVries and Lamar Wilkerson. The analysis pointed out that while the team may excel in three-point shooting, there are concerns about their interior defense, leaving the need for strong performances from new point guards Tayton Conerway and Conor Enright crucial.
Sports Illustrated placed Indiana at No. 38 nationally and No. 11 in the Big Ten, noting Darian DeVries’ modern offensive approach and the exciting addition of players like Wilkerson and Reed Bailey. FIELD OF 68 offered a more nuanced view, drawing parallels between Indiana’s potential progression and other teams’ experiences, suggesting the Hoosiers could realize success if they can solidify their defense as the season unfolds.
Andy Katz lent a more optimistic note, ranking Indiana No. 31 nationally and emphasizing the importance of a healthy Tucker DeVries in maintaining relevance throughout the season. Jon Rothstein, however, viewed the Hoosiers as outside the top 45 nationally and ranked them 15th in the Big Ten. Notably, Joe Lunardi’s bracketology places Indiana among the “First Four Out,” signaling they will need impressive showings to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
Various computer models present a mixed view, with ESPN’s BPI ranking Indiana No. 29 nationally and No. 7 in the Big Ten, while other models like KenPom and Bart Torvik show them lower at No. 38 and No. 40, respectively.
As the season gears up, Indiana’s blend of veteran experience, fresh talent, and a capable coaching staff brings hope for a competitive campaign in the Big Ten, stirring anticipation among fans for what is to come on the hardwood.