After struggling in the Bahamas, Indiana showed some encouraging signs on offense in a decisive 97-71 victory over Sam Houston State, highlighted by a smaller lineup and strong bench contributions.

Mike Woodson demonstrated flexibility by moving away from the two-big lineup that had struggled previously, while Luke Goode (career-high 18 points) and Anthony Leal provided crucial energy and execution off the bench that helped spark the offense.

The defensive concerns remain, but the Hoosiers showed they may be able to compensate with improved offensive spacing and tempo when playing with just one big man on the floor.

Key discussion topics included:

• The stark difference in offensive flow and spacing when playing with one big versus two
• Myles Rice's second-half emergence after early struggles
• The invaluable hustle and leadership provided by Anthony Leal in his expanded minutes
• Indiana's improved defensive rebounding after struggles in that area in the Bahamas
• What tonight's lineup adjustments could mean for the rotation going forward
• Continued concerns about perimeter defense despite the comfortable win

Plus, as always, the Banner Moment, Meaningful Moments You Might Have Missed, Inside the Numbers, and our Game Balls, Hustle Award, and Lingering Questions. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.

On the mics: Andy Bottoms, Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips

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