The Assembly Call IU Basketball Podcast and Postgame Show

Indiana basketball unveiled a dramatically different brand of hoops in Darian DeVries' debut, demolishing Marian 107-46 with relentless three-point shooting and defensive intensity.

The Hoosiers launched 30 three-pointers, scored almost exclusively in the paint or from beyond the arc, and played with the kind of pace and ball movement that's been absent from Bloomington for years.

Most encouragingly, the defensive effort never wavered—even up 40 points—with closeouts, ball pressure, and fundamental box-outs on display throughout.

• Trent Sisley scored 23 points on 8-9 shooting, showing the basketball IQ and instincts of a player who simply gets the game
• Tucker DeVries lit it up in the first half, finishing with 23 points
• The offense flows through constant movement, backdoor cuts, and a willingness to share the ball (27 assists on 39 made field goals)
• Sam Alexis provides the hustle and two-handed rebounding Indiana desperately needs
• Six different players hit 3s as the Hoosiers embrace modern basketball
• Conor Enright brings relentless ball pressure and disruption on defense
• Reed Bailey showcases his versatility, even bringing the ball up in transition and popping out for threes after post touches

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: Brian Tonsoni, Jerod Morris, Andy Bottoms, Bob Moats, and a special appearance from Ryan Phillips

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What a day to be a Hoosier. Before we even got to talk basketball, Curt Cignetti made it official—signing an eight-year, $11.6 million per year extension that makes him the third-highest paid coach in college football. Brian and Ryan open with their reactions to the news that keeps Indiana's football renaissance alive, joined by Galen Clavio calling in from the road to break down what this means for the entire athletic department.

Then it's time for basketball. With the first exhibition game against Marian just hours away, we dive into what Coach DeVries has been revealing at media days and in practice availability sessions.

Here's what we're watching for as the DeVries era tips off:

• How the three-point shooting philosophy translates to actual game action—spoiler: it's going to look dramatically different than what we've seen

• The intriguing possibility of Bailey and Alexis playing together, and what a two-big lineup might mean for this offense

• Rotation questions with key injuries to Drake, Dorn, and others limiting the backcourt depth early

• What "limited sets" actually means for these exhibitions, and why DeVries isn't showing his full hand yet

• The defensive identity taking shape—who's bringing that dog mentality on ball pressure?

• Chemistry reads between players who've never played together, and where the gaps might show up

• Why this completely rebuilt roster (zero returning points) makes these exhibitions even more critical

Plus, as always, KenPom's first rankings (IU at #40), what Hoops on Kirkwood revealed about the program's new energy, Trent Sisley's balcony shot, why this feels different than any recent season, and our specific player focuses for tomorrow night's debut.

On the mics: Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, and Galen Clavio

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IU football's dominant win over Illinois provided the perfect backdrop for discussing both the Hoosiers' incredible transformation under Curt Cignetti and the anticipation building around Darian DeVries' basketball program.

Coach Tonsoni was on the scene at Memorial Stadium to witness the atmosphere firsthand, and broke down everything from the defensive front's relentless pressure to Mike Katic's legendary shirtless beer-chugging performance during "Mr. Brightside."

Segment 1: Football Euphoria [00:00:00-25:00] - We dive into the electric atmosphere that had 56,000 fans waving towels in a sold-out Memorial Stadium, the complete dismantling of Brett Bielema's offense, and what this program transformation means for all IU athletics.

Segment 2: Basketball Anticipation & Chase Brandham [25:00-36:00] - Discussion of the 2027 guard's commitment and that heartwarming video of Coach DeVries learning the news, plus early practice observations and the growing excitement around the new-look roster.

Segment 3: Schedule Deep Dive [36:00-end] - Comprehensive breakdown of the released Big Ten schedule, including that brutal nine-game stretch from January to February and why IU's early conference slate could be crucial for building momentum.

Key discussion points:

• How Cignetti's "standard is the standard" philosophy has created something unprecedented in Bloomington
• Whether we're more excited for football's playoff chase or basketball's fresh start under DeVries
• Breaking down IU's Big Ten schedule into tiers and identifying where those crucial four road wins might come from
• The challenge of rating teams in the transfer portal era when everyone has new rosters
• Why that January 17th Iowa game is already circled on our calendars

Plus, as always, debate about preseason rankings meaning anything anymore, Coach's tailgate adventures, and Ryan's impossible question that had everyone choosing sides between football and basketball season. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.

On the mics: Andy Bottoms, Coach Tonsoni, and Ryan Phillips

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Indiana athletics finds itself in a rare golden moment, prompting an unscripted celebration of everything going right in Bloomington. This edition of The Assembly Call brings together Coach Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, and Jerod Morris for a freewheeling conversation about the positive momentum across multiple sports and some exciting new developments in basketball.

Going completely off-script without segments or a formal banner moment, we dive into what feels like the best time for Indiana athletics in decades. Soccer is ranked #1 nationally, football sits at 2-0 with genuine playoff aspirations, volleyball is thriving, and basketball is generating legitimate excitement under the new DeVries regime.

Key Discussion Points Include:

• Hoosier the Bison's successful rollout - From the parachute entrance to Jeremy Gray's "outstanding" acting in promotional videos, the mascot has been a hit with fans young and old
• Crimson Cast Live event recap - Ryan's experience on stage at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater discussing football with Mitchell Paige and Griffin Gonzalez
• Modern basketball philosophy - A deep dive into what "big vs. small ball" really means and how movement, not size, defines modern basketball
• Recruiting challenges and trust in DeVries - Whether Indiana's recent struggles have damaged the brand and why this coaching change feels different
• College sports realignment concerns - Ohio State's potential push for unequal revenue sharing and what it means for programs like Indiana

The conversation's highlight comes with the announcement of Hoops on Kirkwood - replacing traditional Hoosier Hysteria with an outdoor event on Kirkwood Avenue from 8-10 PM on October 2nd. We're unanimously enthusiastic about this creative approach to connecting the basketball program with students and the community.

Unscripted Tangents and Philosophy

The show takes entertaining detours through topics ranging from favorite coaches to listen to (Shaka Smart, Matt Painter, and yes, even Brad Underwood), to speculation about future sports documentaries, to the importance of stepping away from social media when sports stop bringing joy.

Throughout, there's an underlying theme of cautious optimism mixed with genuine excitement about the direction of Indiana athletics under Scott Dolson's leadership.

Plus, as always, plenty of praise for the athletic department's creative thinking, excitement about connecting basketball to campus culture, and the recognition that this feels like the most positive moment for Indiana sports in anyone's recent memory. That's all in this unscripted edition of The Assembly Call.

On the mics: Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, and Jerod Morris

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Indiana basketball fans get a chance to reflect on the Hoosiers' successful three-game sweep in Puerto Rico while also building excitement for what promises to be a historic football season.

This edition of Assembly Call Radio brings together Coach Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Andy Bottoms, and Jerod Morris to discuss the early signs from the DeVries era and the anticipation building around both basketball and football.

Segment 1: Headlines and Community Connection [00:00:00 - 00:20:00]

The banner moment focuses on Coach DeVries' community engagement during move-in week - helping students move into dorms, appearing at the freshman rally, and visiting Homefield Apparel's new Kirkwood store. The hosts emphasize how refreshing it is to see a coach embracing all aspects of the job after years of perceived resistance to community involvement.

Discussion includes the release of the Big Ten's top 40 player rankings with Lamar Wilkerson checking in at 29th and expectations for Tucker DeVries to land in the top 15. The conversation touches on Indiana's current "first four out" status in ESPN's early bracketology and upcoming exhibitions against Marian and Baylor.

A significant portion focuses on football expectations, with both hosts projecting 8-9 wins and discussing the challenge of managing fan expectations in what could be another special season under Curt Cignetti.

Segment 2: Puerto Rico Trip Analysis [00:21:00 - 00:45:00]

Special guest Galen Clavio joins to discuss the three-game Puerto Rico sweep. The hosts emphasize looking at trends rather than results given the competition level, but note encouraging signs about pace, ball movement, and the team's ability to come back from double-digit deficits in the final two games.

Key observations include the emphasis on three-point volume, improved spacing and movement compared to recent years, and the development of team chemistry among players who had never played together before. The conversation highlights how this represents a complete philosophical shift toward modern basketball.

Galen also promotes the Back Home Network's expansion with new shows including Football Weather, The Big Red Carpet, and the upcoming Crimson Cast Live event at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater.

Segment 3: Individual Standouts and Random Tangents [00:45:00 - 01:31:00]

The final segment dives deeper into individual performances, particularly praising Taton Conway's ball pressure defense and improved offensive showing, plus Reed Bailey's versatility as a passing big man who can handle the ball. The hosts discuss how this team's depth could be a major asset with multiple players capable of contributing.

The conversation takes several entertaining detours including Cowboys documentary discussions, predictions about future sports documentaries, and speculation about who would play Curt Cignetti in a hypothetical Indiana football movie. Throughout, there's underlying optimism about both programs heading into their respective seasons.

Plus, as always, analysis of a trip none of them actually watched, excitement about finally seeing modern basketball concepts at Indiana, and the challenge of tempering expectations while embracing the obvious improvements in program culture and direction. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.

On the mics: Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Andy Bottoms, and Jerod Morris (with special guest Galen Clavio)

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Indiana basketball fans got their first real look at the new era under Darren DeVries as the Hoosiers dominated their opening exhibition game in Puerto Rico 98-47. This edition of The Assembly Call brings together Coach Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Galen Clavio, and Bob Moats to break down a game none of them actually watched - relying instead on social media updates, live blogs, and video clips to piece together what happened.

The banner moment says it all: 21 three-point attempts in the first half alone. While Indiana only hit six of them, the sheer volume represents everything fans have been hoping to see - a complete departure from the basketball of recent years.

Key discussion points include:

• First impressions of the starting five and what their roles might be
• Trent Sisley's breakout performance and what it means for depth
• The European influence and basketball IQ on display
• Early defensive concerns and growing pains with communication
• What the pace and ball movement suggest about this new system
• Breaking down video clips and unofficial stats from Puerto Rico

The hosts emphasize not reading too much into results against inferior competition, but the style, energy, and philosophy on display have everyone excited about the direction of the program.

Plus, as always, plenty of basketball analysis from a game nobody actually watched, excitement about movement and spacing finally coming to Assembly Hall, and optimism about what this new era might bring. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.

On the mics: Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Galen Clavio, and Bob Moats

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Indiana basketball fans got a couple pieces of legit offseason news with the release of the non-conference schedule and the program's first recruiting commitment under Darren DeVries.

This edition of Assembly Call Radio, with hosts Coach Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, and Andy Bottoms, breaks down what these developments mean for the new era of Hoosier basketball.

Segment 1: Hoosier Headlines [00:00:00 - 00:29:59]

After months of roster construction and staff building, the schedule release brings fans one step closer to seeing if DeVries' vision can translate to wins on the court.

The big news is Prince Alexander Moody's commitment - the program's first 2026 recruit who represents the "DeVries prototype": a 6'4" shooting guard who fits the system's emphasis on floor spacing and shooting ability.

Other headlines covered include the completion of DeVries' coaching staff, Anthony Leal's denied waiver appeal (ending his college career), and the mic'd-up practice videos showing coaches emphasizing fundamentals like ball pressure defense and proper spacing. The segment closes with a heartfelt thank you to Leal for his contributions to the program.

Segment 2: Non-Conference Schedule Analysis [00:30:00 - 00:54:59]

The hosts break down Indiana's 11-game non-conference slate, identifying four major tests surrounded by seven more manageable opponents. The marquee games include:

November 9th vs Marquette (Chicago) - Early season test against a well-coached program

December 6th vs Louisville (Indianapolis) - Neutral site against a top-20 preseason team

December 13th at Kentucky - The big one everyone's been waiting for, back at Rupp Arena

November 25th vs Kansas State (home) - Protecting Assembly Hall against a Big 12 opponent

Both hosts project a 9-2 non-conference record, with the Kentucky road game being the most difficult challenge. They praise the regional appeal of the schedule, giving fans concrete games to look forward to attending or watching. The conversation includes early bracketology implications and how this schedule sets up better than previous years' efforts.

Segment 3: Mailbag [00:55:00 - 01:37:02]

The final segment tackles listener questions about overall record predictions and the challenge of connecting with an almost entirely new roster. The hosts project an 11-9 Big Ten record (20-11 overall), which should be good enough for tournament consideration.

A thoughtful discussion emerges around a fan's question about feeling disconnected from the program due to constant roster turnover. The hosts acknowledge this is a real challenge in the transfer portal era and share their own strategies for dealing with it - focusing on the style of play rather than individual players, and waiting until the season starts to really invest emotionally in the roster.

Jerod Morris joins late in the segment to add his perspective on the changing nature of college basketball fandom and how the off-season feels different now with so much roster uncertainty.

Plus, as always, thoughts on staff completion, the challenge of maintaining fan engagement in college basketball's new landscape, and early excitement about a different brand of basketball coming to Assembly Hall. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.

On the mics: Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Andy Bottoms, and Jerod Morris

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What a wild ride this episode was!

Coach, Ryan, and Jerod were joined by the man of the hour, Galen Clavio, for a celebration that took some unexpected turns. From technical difficulties to traffic stops, this episode has it all.

Key Topics Covered:

• [2:24] Banner Moment: The Bison is Back! - The big news everyone's been waiting for as Indiana officially brings back the bison mascot, with Galen getting his long-awaited dream realized
• [19:25] Hubers Winery Event Recap - Galen reports live from the annual Hoosier Connect event featuring new basketball coach Darren DeVries and football coach Curt Cignetti, with over 900 fans in attendance
• [32:00] Puerto Rico Trip Discussion - Breaking down Indiana basketball's upcoming August trip to Puerto Rico and why these international trips are so valuable for team building with a completely new roster
• [40:36] LIVE DRAMA: Galen Gets Pulled Over! - In a podcast first, Galen literally gets pulled over by police while driving back from Hubers and talking to us live on air (don't worry, he's fine!)
• [1:04:00] Mailbag Segment - Answering listener questions about everything from Kentucky game nerves to how the bison will be incorporated into basketball, plus scholarship situation updates
• [1:16:00] Basketball Philosophy & Expectations - Discussing Coach DeVries' comments about being "undersized" at center but having multiple ways to protect the rim, plus his emphasis on having great shooting depth

Hopefully this episode captures what makes our show special - the unpredictable moments, genuine friendships, and shared excitement about Indiana sports. Between celebrating Galen's bison campaign success and witnessing podcast history with that traffic stop, it was an unforgettable night.

The energy around both football and basketball programs feels genuinely different right now, and it's exciting to be along for the ride as this new era begins in Bloomington.

(Also, I dropped in a little song at the end, related to the discussion we had about social media.)

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This edition of The Assembly Call dives into Indiana's complete roster overhaul and what fans might expect heading into the 2025-26 season.

After inconsistent results under previous regimes, Indiana basketball is embracing a paradigm shift toward a more modern, movement-oriented system. The conversation highlights DeVries' business-like approach to program building and the significant shift in roster construction.

Key discussion points include:

• The new-look roster featuring primarily mid-major transfers like Lamar Wilkerson and Tucker DeVries
• The team's potential defensive identity with aggressive ball pressure rather than traditional rim protection
• Reasonable expectations for the upcoming season in a competitive Big Ten
• The contrasting styles of DeVries vs. Woodson, particularly the shift to a more face-up, perimeter-oriented offense
• The possibility of Luke Goode and Anthony Leal returning with additional eligibility waivers

We speculate about where this roster might fall in the Big Ten pecking order and why Indiana's apparent change in approach and culture is a welcome development.

Plus, as always, plenty of basketball analysis, listener questions, and a candid discussion about maintaining realistic expectations while embracing the positive changes within the program. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call.

On the mics: Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Bob Moats, and Jerod Morris

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It's an episode of The Assembly Call ... without anyone from The Assembly Call!

But when an emergency pod was called for, and no AC members were available, the other members of the Back Home Network came together to fill in.

So join Galen Clavio from Crimson Cast and Bob & Mike from Xs and Joes as they discuss the exciting Lamar Wilkerson commitment from many angles.

Those who listen to Xs and Joes know that Mike doesn't get this enthusiastic very often.

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