The Indiana Hoosiers concluded the 2025‑26 campaign with an 18‑14 record, a finish that placed them tenth in the Big Ten under first‑year head coach Darian DeVries. The team entered the offseason aware that the departure of twelve players, among them star scorer Lamar Wilkerson and the coach’s son Tucker DeVries, would leave a sizable void.
Rebuilding the Roster
To address the gaps, the program turned to the transfer portal, securing three high‑profile newcomers. Aiden Sherrell, a 6‑11 power forward who averaged 11.1 points and 6.2 rebounds at Alabama, brings size and interior presence. Markus Burton, a 5‑11 point guard from Notre Dame, posted 19.1 points per game and nearly two steals per contest last season, and the coaching staff has identified him as the centerpiece of the new look. Samet Yigitoglu, a 7‑2 center from Southern Methodist University, contributes 10.4 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, adding depth in the paint.
The success of the Hoosiers now hinges on Burton’s health and his ability to translate collegiate production to the rigors of Big Ten play. Coach DeVries has emphasized that keeping the point guard on the floor will be pivotal, especially as the team integrates three newcomers into a cohesive unit.
Conference Outlook
If the newcomers adapt quickly and Burton stays healthy, analysts project the Hoosiers could break into the conference’s top three, a marked improvement from their tenth‑place finish a year ago. The team’s depth and experience gained from the portal could translate into a more competitive schedule.
The non‑conference slate includes a much‑anticipated matchup against the Ducks, who will host Indiana later this season, though the exact date remains undetermined. Fans are eager to see how the revamped roster performs under the bright lights of home court.