A Central Question

As the Hoosiers approach a new season, we have all witnessed early flashes of a promising backcourt and versatile wings. This backcourt includes outstanding new freshmen James Blackmon Jr. and Rob Johnson, a solid, now right-handed Stanford Robinson, and the addition of Nick Zeisloft to the mix. The uber-athletic Troy Williams will return (hopefully for a couple more seasons…) as well. This year, we all know what we will get from the guards…but the question remains about our inside presence as we approach this critical season in Tom Crean's tenure. Let us examine 2 primary options for this role: 

Hanner Mosqueara-Perea- Averaged 2.8 pts & 2.1 rebounds last year. Athleticism through the roof, but hasn't reached that polished level that we all hoped for early on. Threat of a mid-range jumper still isn't there, but he is slowing down once he receives the ball in the post. Security of the ball and patience will be paramount for him this season. I don't believe I am alone when saying this MAY be the year we see some more consistent and smoother play from the Columbian. 

Jeremiah April- A signing completely unforeseen and out of the blue. Standing at 6'11, he is going to be a work in progress that could use a few lbs. At Joy Christian, the lanky big man averaged 11 pts, 6 rebs & 2 blocks a game. One benefit is that he possesses a decent mid-range shot, but to be somewhat effective in the post not much more is needed. Am I expecting him to be Cody these first years? Absolutely not. Just add some weight, a little bit of athleticism and he could surprise us. My worst fear? Another Peter Jurkin.

Devin and Emmitt aren't mentioned here because they are somewhat different players than HMP and April. However, they could provide similar services moving forward, just to a lesser extent in terms of the center position. This season, anything could happen. We have solved one issue in shooting, but the impact of Luke leaving may have been a little larger than first anticipated. Here's to hoping for a balanced Hoosier offense heading into a very important year for the program. Highlights of April are provided below for those of you who haven't had a chance to see him play.