National analyst gives takeaways, observations from his time at Indiana basketball practice

Indiana basketball enters the 2024-25 season with high expectations — expectations higher than any other year under Mike Woodson.

Mike Woodson said it himself, it’s the most talented roster he’s had during his now four years in Bloomington. After a 19-14 season and missed NCAA Tournament last year, the entire Indiana basketball staff hit the transfer portal in a hard way, flipping its entire roster with seven new additions.

Last week, fans got their first look at the flipped roster during Hoosier Hysteria. While there was just a short scrimmage, there were a lot of intriguing storylines to come from the evening.

On Monday, however, fans got more info regarding the team. This time, from FOX Sports reporter and national college basketball analyst John Fanta. Fanta was at IU’s practice on Monday and provided some key notes and observations from his time in Bloomington.

Below are his takeaways, via his Twitter page:

Myles Rice’s is a true leader:  “The immediate takeaway from Indiana practice — Myles Rice’s leadership. He’s talking a ton on both ends and is so crafty. A blur in transition. Once he gets in the open floor, something productive happens either for him or his teammates. Averaged 14.8 PPG, 3.8 APG last year. Stud.”

Perimeter Play: “Malik Reneau told me the big difference for this Indiana team from last yr is the perimeter. He said when there’s pressure in the post, he feels like there’s multiple go-to options that can drill the 3. Luke Goode will deliver in that column & Mackenzie Mgbako’s evolved his shot.”

Mackenzie Mgbako ‘checks off so many boxes’:  “Mackenzie Mgbako looks as advertised as the reigning Big Ten Co-Freshman of the Year. He grew to 6-foot-9 over the summer, added muscle to his frame + has impressed in Indiana’s practice session. He checks off so many boxes and his ability to make 3s is pivotal for the Hoosiers.”

IU freshman Bryson Tucker will be a factor: “Indiana 4-star freshman Bryson Tucker will help the Hoosiers as a reserve this year and some around the program believe he’s got the most pro upside on this roster. The 6-7 wing has added around 15 pounds of muscle since arriving to IU. Can attack off the dribble at a high level.”

Kanaan Carlyle the x-factor?: “Kanaan Carlyle is really tough to contain off the dribble with his quickness. The key for the Stanford transfer: Will he make people pay when he’s left open from downtown? He’s worked a lot on the shot over the summer. If he’s connecting, it gives Indiana a different dimension.”

Oumar Ballo’s dominance: “This doesn’t come as a surprise, but Oumar Ballo is dominating this Indiana practice. His physicality and presence inside makes him such a tough cover. Will be a double-double machine for the Hoosiers as he was at Arizona. Another takeaway: He’s made strides as a passer.”

Checking in from Bloomington with takeaways from Indiana practice. The Hoosiers are stacked with talented pieces: pic.twitter.com/botOIPUEc3

— John Fanta (@John_Fanta) October 21, 2024

SEE ALSO: Rapid Reaction — Final thoughts on Indiana basketball from Hoosier Hysteria