Indiana State University announced that its men's basketball exhibition against Butler University, originally slated for Oct. 10, has been moved to Oct. 18 at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The change comes after a period of planning between the two programs and reflects a mutual desire to showcase the renewed relationship between the schools.
A Return to Hinkle Fieldhouse
Head coach Matthew Graves, who spent 17 combined seasons as a player and coach at Butler, will step onto the hardwood as an opposing head coach for the first time. Graves finished his Butler career with 994 total points as a player and compiled a 89‑21 record alongside Ronald Nored from 2009 to 2012. His last appearance at the venue was missed last year due to a medical procedure, making this return especially meaningful.
Graves expressed gratitude to Nored for facilitating the rescheduled contest, noting the longstanding rapport they share from their overlapping tenures at Butler. The two coaches previously worked together for three seasons, during which they built a strong foundation that continues to influence their current collaboration.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming exhibition will serve as a benchmark for both squads as they prepare for the regular season. In their most recent meeting, Indiana State fell 105‑80 in a 12‑minute, four‑quarter format, shooting 41.1% from the field and 33.3% from three‑point range, while Butler posted 50% shooting and 45.8% from beyond the arc. The 2016 regular‑season clash saw Indiana State edge Butler 72‑71, with Brenton Scott sinking a free throw with 1.5 seconds left to secure the victory.