In this special live episode, hosts Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth break down Indiana's hiring of Darian DeVries as the program's 31st head basketball coach. The hosts dive into DeVries's background, coaching philosophy, and what Hoosier fans can expect moving forward with a mix of cautious optimism and analytical insight.

The conversation explores DeVries's impressive track record at Drake (where he won 25 games per season at a program that averaged just 13 wins before his arrival) and his promising single season at West Virginia. The hosts examine his offensive and defensive systems, recruiting success, and why IU fans should be excited about the future while maintaining realistic expectations.

What You'll Hear:

• Why DeVries's Drake teams overachieved compared to the program's historical averages by a remarkable margin
• How DeVries runs a modern five-out offense that creates space, emphasizes ball movement, and generates quality three-point shots
• Details on his defensive approach that emphasizes ball pressure, communication, and disrupting passing lanes
• The impact Tucker DeVries (his son and a potential transfer) could have on IU's roster
• Why DeVries might be able to turn the program around quickly with Indiana's NIL resources

This episode strikes a balance between enthusiasm for the future and an understanding that championship-level success takes time. As the hosts point out, DeVries wasn't necessarily on many fans' radar initially, but his track record of program-building and ability to win immediately at both Drake and West Virginia make him an intriguing hire for a program looking to return to national prominence.

Whether you're thrilled, skeptical, or somewhere in between about the hiring, this episode provides valuable context about what DeVries brings to Bloomington and what to watch for as he begins building his program at Indiana.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 27 offers a comprehensive year-in-review of the 2024-2025 college basketball season, examining both expected outcomes and surprising developments as the NCAA Tournament field is set.

Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth analyze the shifting conference power dynamics, team regressions, and unexpected success stories while reflecting on what these patterns reveal about modern college basketball.

Segment 1: Conference Consolidation and Power Dynamics

• The SEC dominated the tournament field, with all but two conference teams making the tournament, reflecting a growing gap in athletic talent similar to football's development in the 1990s
• Conference consolidation has created clear tiers of power, with the SEC and Big Ten at the top, followed by the Big 12 and ACC
• The hosts discuss the "eye test" difference when watching SEC/Big 12 teams compared to other conferences, particularly in athleticism and physicality
• Teams like Purdue and UConn experienced predictable regressions after losing transformative players like Zach Edey and Donovan Clingan

Segment 2: Surprising Performances

• Wisconsin transformed from a traditionally slow, methodical program to a high-scoring team averaging 80 points per game
• Louisville under Pat Kelsey made a remarkable turnaround from 8-24 (185th in KenPom) to 27-7 (23rd in KenPom) and an 8-seed
• Penn State didn't make the expected leap under Mike Rhoades despite early promising signs
• Kentucky, Michigan, and Louisville all exceeded expectations under new coaches despite initial fan skepticism about their hires
• Houston became a more complete team by improving their offensive efficiency and three-point shooting while maintaining elite defense

Segment 3: Indiana's Season and Coaching Change

• Indiana finished on the wrong side of the NCAA Tournament bubble as the "first team out" after a disappointing 10-10 conference record
• Analysis of why highly-touted transfer guards Myles Rice and Kanaan Carlyle underperformed relative to statistical projections
• Discussion of how roster construction and offensive system limited the team's ceiling despite having talented individual players
• A brief discussion on the ongoing coaching search, noting that patience is important as the most successful coaching hires often come later in the cycle

This episode provides a thoughtful examination of how program building works in modern college basketball, illustrating how coaching, system fit, and player development determine which teams rise and fall each season.

The discussion offers valuable context for understanding the cyclical nature of program success in an era of increased player movement and conference realignment.

Links:

• The Cranberries - Zombie (Alt. Version)
• "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" - Gordon Lightfoot (HD w/ Lyrics)
• 1985 Bears: The Greatest Defensive Season of All-Time! | Legendary Teams
• Why is Northern Ireland Obsessed with the Colour Orange?
• Ryan's Daughter (1970) Trailer
• John Andretti - 2009 Indianapolis 500 Bump Day Qualifying Run
• The Dirty Dozen (1967) - Blowing The Chateau Scene (9/10) | Movieclips
• THE QUIET MAN ('52) | Final Fight Scene ☘️🤜
• Pipes and drums of the Irish guards new guard Irish guards

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In episode 26, hosts Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth welcome guest Ryan Phillips from The Assembly Call to discuss coaching search dynamics in college basketball, particularly focusing on Indiana’s current situation following Mike Woodson's departure announcement.

Segment 1: The Wall of Sound and Silence

The hosts explore the challenging information landscape during coaching searches, comparing it to "Schrodinger's cat" – everyone desperately wants to know what's happening inside a sealed box that won't be opened until an official announcement is made. This creates fertile ground for rumors, flight tracking, and what Bob calls "horse-farm theories."

Ryan provides fascinating insider perspective on how reporters navigate these waters, sharing the rules he follows during searches and why information is always shared for a reason. The conversation reveals why back-channel communications might be happening now, but serious discussions typically don't heat up until conference tournaments begin.

Segment 2: Cracking the Code

What separates successful coaching hires from disappointments? The hosts examine surprising data about coaching longevity across Division I and what it reveals about hiring practices. Mike introduces a particularly compelling statistical predictor that has shown remarkable consistency in forecasting which coaches succeed at championship levels – with only one exception since the 1960s.

This leads to a thoughtful discussion about whether athletic directors should move more quickly on coaching changes in today's landscape. Ryan offers a compelling perspective on why programs like Indiana "can't afford to miss again" and the potential long-term consequences if they do.

Segment 3: Indiana's Next Move

The hosts exchange views on what Indiana should prioritize in its next coach, discussing specific candidates who might align with what they call the "theory of opposites." They debate the merits of coaches like Scott Drew and T.J. Otzelberger, with each host revealing their personal preferences.

Ryan makes an intriguing prediction about the possibility of a completely unexpected hire, explaining why coaching moves that "come out of left field" are increasingly common in today's college basketball environment. The episode concludes with a tribute to actor Gene Hackman and his iconic portrayal of basketball coach Norman Dale in "Hoosiers."

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of X's and Joe's, Bob and Mike explore how the 3-point shot has revolutionized basketball, examining its evolution from gimmick to fundamental strategy and its impact on modern offensive systems.

Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth trace the history of the 3-point line from its origins in early professional leagues through its adoption across all levels of basketball, while analyzing how it has transformed everything from youth player development to collegiate offensive systems.

The discussion is particularly timely given recent coaching changes at programs like Indiana, Kentucky, and Michigan, where offensive philosophy and three-point shooting strategy may play a key role in future hires.

Against the backdrop of increasing three-point frequency across college basketball (from 30% of shots in 2000 to nearly 40% in 2025), the hosts examine how spacing, penetration, and player development have evolved to maximize this offensive weapon.

Segment 1: The Origins and Evolution of the Three-Point Shot:

• Early implementation as a gimmick in the ABA and ABL leagues

• Adoption timeline across professional, international and college basketball

• Analysis of three-point frequency and efficiency trends over 25 years

• Impact of rule changes like shot clock and three-point line distance

Segment 2: Player Development and Modern Offensive Strategy:

• Changes in youth basketball development emphasizing perimeter skills

• Influence of international players like Oscar Schmidt and Arvydas Sabonis

• Importance of quick decision-making and catch-and-shoot mechanics

• Evolution of transition offense and spacing concepts

• Role of penetration in creating three-point opportunities

Segment 3 and wrap up: Coaching Changes and Future Implications:

• Discussion of how three-point philosophy may influence coaching hires

• Analysis of recent changes at Kentucky and Michigan showing trend toward modern offenses

• Examination of fan expectations regarding offensive style

• Balance between three-point shooting and driving ability in modern systems

References:

• 1987 Pan American Basketball Final Brasil vs Usa
• How Good Was Arvydas Sabonis Actually?
• COOPER DEJEAN PICK SIX IN THE SUPER BOWL
• Louie Dampier Career Highlights
• NBA initially hated the 3-point shot when ABA first introduced it at the start of 1967–68 season
• 1988 Olympics Basketball Semifinal USA 76 USSR 82

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 24 of Xs and Joes, hosted by Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth, explores the complex dynamics of program expectations in college basketball, with special guest Jerod Morris of The Assembly Call.

The discussion examines how expectations are formed, managed, and evolve in modern college athletics, using Indiana basketball as a primary case study while drawing broader insights about fan psychology and program management.

Segment 1: Formation of Expectations

• How expectations are established through program history and leadership
• Differences in expectations across various levels of competition
• Role of program leadership in setting the tone and standards
• Impact of tradition on fan expectations and program identity

Segment 2: Modern Challenges

• Evolution of fan-program relationship in social media era
• Impact of NIL on program-fan dynamics
• Breakdown of traditional barriers between fans and players
• Balance between maintaining standards and showing patience
• Importance of program identity and "non-negotiables"

Segment 3: Managing Expectations

• Analysis of high-profile programs' unique challenges
• Need for clear program vision and communication
• Balance between high standards and realistic goals
• Role of coaches in shaping and managing fan expectations
• Importance of program identity in maintaining fan support

The episode offers valuable insights into how successful programs navigate the challenges of high expectations while adapting to modern college athletics' changing landscape.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosts Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth provide an emergency analysis of Indiana University basketball's current state following concerning recent losses and program developments.

Segment 1

After briefly discussing their recent trip to Philadelphia and the historic Palestra, they examine the underlying factors contributing to IU's current struggles:

• The unique nature of Mike Woodson's hiring and the dual expectations he faced
• Early successes in his first two years followed by concerning regression in year three
• Recruitment challenges, including going 0-31 on top-100 guard offers and losing key commitments

Segment 2

The hosts provide detailed analysis of ten key indicators that typically signal problems for a coaching tenure, based on Mike Wiemuth's research into coaching transitions:

1. Lack of winning relative to expectations: Despite a 14-5 record, recent blowout losses and struggles against top competition are concerning
2. Underperformance against rivals/contemporaries: Particularly notable given Purdue's success and recent losses to programs like Louisville
3. Erosion of trust with local coaching networks: Limited engagement with high school and AAU coaches, with many lacking direct contact with the staff
4. Declining attendance: Notable student section departures during games and increasingly visible empty seats
5. Loss of attraction with high-impact recruits: Going 0-31 on top-100 guard offers and losing key commitments like Liam McNeely
6. Increased media speculation: Growing national coverage questioning the program's direction
7. Staff stability concerns: While more stable than previous struggling tenures, signs of stress appearing
8. Social media sentiment: Reaching concerning 3-to-1 negative to positive ratio thresholds
9. Negative program leaks: Increasing behind-the-scenes stories emerging
10. Vocal fan displeasure: Growing audible frustration at home games, which research shows is often a late-stage indicator

The hosts note that these indicators tend to build on each other, creating momentum that becomes increasingly difficult to reverse.

Segment 3 and wrap up

The hosts discuss how to approach the remainder of the season as fans:

• Acknowledge that events are largely beyond fan control
• Understand that while turnarounds are possible, they become increasingly improbable
• Root for the current players while being realistic about the situation
• Recognize that significant changes may be coming regardless of late-season results

Throughout the episode, they emphasize providing analytical context rather than advocacy, helping fans understand the mechanics and patterns of college basketball programs during challenging transitions.

The episode ends with some lighter discussion of their recent Philadelphia trip, including authentic cheesesteaks and the historic Palestra.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosts Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth explore the concept of momentum in college basketball programs - what it really means, how it manifests, and what drives it in both positive and negative directions.

Segment 1

After briefly discussing recent football playoffs, they dive into defining program momentum and how it differs from game-level momentum. They explore how momentum is more about perception and emotional reactions from various stakeholders (fans, recruits, media, etc.) than purely on-court performance.

Key points:

1. Momentum is easier to identify than define - it's like "knowing it when you see it"
2. Social media acts as an accelerator of momentum, both positive and negative
3. Momentum involves multiple actors including coaches, players, fans, administration, and media all reacting to events and each other

Segment 2

The hosts examine specific examples of program momentum, both positive and negative:

1. Penn State under Mike Rhoades showing positive momentum despite coaching change
2. Michigan's transition from Juwan Howard to Dusty May
3. North Carolina's gradual decline under Hubert Davis
4. Villanova's struggles under Kyle Neptune

They discuss how momentum can be affected by:

• Coaching changes
• Recruiting success/failure
• Fan engagement
• Media coverage
• Regional rivalries
• Program expectations

Segment 3

The conversation shifts to Indiana basketball's current momentum situation, examining:

1. Recent recruiting setbacks
2. Early season performance concerns
3. Program expectations vs reality
4. The challenges of rebuilding momentum at a historically prominent program

The episode concludes with a tribute to Dick Van Arsdale, former Indiana University basketball great who recently passed away.

Throughout the discussion, Bob and Mike emphasize how momentum is about long-term patterns rather than individual events, and how it's often easier to lose momentum than to gain it, especially after a program's "honeymoon period" ends.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Xs and Joes, the crew explores how college basketball programs try to use pace of play to their advantage, bringing in Coach Tonsoni and Coach Adragna to provide tactical insights.

The discussion examines how tempo and pace interact with personnel, recruiting, and program philosophy in modern college basketball. Our panel explores how some traditionally slower-paced programs like Wisconsin are adapting to modern play styles, while others like Virginia maintain their methodical approach.

They also analyze how factors like the transfer portal and player development are forcing programs to evolve their systems and pace of play.

Segment 1

Everyone says they want to play "fast" (except members of the Bennett family) so why don't they?

1. Why do coaches want to push or pull back tempo? What are the advantages and disadvantages in playing at certain paces?
2. What do teams do to control the pace of play? What can a team do on both ends of the floor to pressure an opponent?
3. How total number of possessions can be misleading in how fast some teams want to play?

Segment 2

So, who is actually playing fast (like Wisconsin is...for them...this year) and how are they doing it?

1. What are some faster playing programs doing differently to get a quicker shot?
2. How are teams slowing down opponents' offenses but getting out ahead in transition or after a score?
3. How has overall roster moves and lineup construction impacted a team's pace of play?

Segment 3 and wrap up

How is a faster pace of play "modern" basketball even though teams have played "fast" (or taken lousy fast shots) throughout the ages?

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This episode examines how college basketball programs experience and handle regression, exploring both historical patterns and current examples of teams navigating performance declines. Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth break down what separates programs that successfully bounce back from those that struggle to recover, while examining different strategies for mitigating regression's impact.

Segment 1: Understanding Regression

• Hall of Fame coaches like Tom Izzo demonstrate that program success follows peaks and valleys rather than steady progression
• Supporting players' statistical performance is significantly influenced by playing alongside All-American caliber teammates
• Matt Painter's tenure at Purdue shows clear cycles of program building and regression
• The "Baby Boilers" to "Johnson years" transition illustrates how roster turnover impacts program stability
• Discussion of how coach evaluation timelines have shortened in the transfer portal era

Segment 2: Teams on Regression Watch

• Analysis of Purdue's outlook after losing Zach Edey and the challenges of maintaining elite status
• Tennessee's adaptation to losing Dalton Knecht and their defensive identity
• Examination of Baylor's roster construction and recruiting approach
• The impact of minutes continuity on program stability and performance
• How conference strength affects a program's ability to manage regression

Segment 3: Bouncing Back

• Comparison of Indiana and UCLA's different approaches to rebuilding through the transfer portal
• Notre Dame's focus on high school recruiting under Micah Shrewsbury
• Cincinnati's emergence under Wes Miller through balanced recruiting
• The role of program resources and brand in determining rebuild strategy
• How NIL and the transfer portal have changed the timeline for program turnarounds

For coaches, administrators, and invested fans, this episode provides context for understanding the cyclical nature of program success and offers insights into how modern programs can manage inevitable downturns. The discussion helps set realistic expectations while examining the various paths programs can take to maintain or regain competitive status.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bob, Mike, and special guest Robie Malcomson discuss how opportunities for athletes to earn NIL and share revenue are transforming the competitive landscape in college basketball.

Segment 1: How Does This New Landscape Impact How We See “Amateur” Athletics?

1. Who were Jim Thorpe, Phil Dickens, Sam Gilbert and Curt Flood? Why Do They Matter Here?
2. Why Could We Add Ed O’Bannon To This Group? How Has His Case Paved The Way For Direct Compensation?
3. In The Era of Tik Tok Stars and Influencers: Is Anyone Really an Amateur?

Segment 2: What Are The Impacts Of Paid Players On Who Finds Success (and Who Doesn’t)?

1. What Pathways Have We Or Could We See For High Major/Mid Major/Low Major Schools?
2. How Have Other Related Yet Distinct Factors Also Have Impacted Teams and Programs? 
3. Why Water May Find Its Level In The Coming Years Like It Has In Other Sports Models?

Segment 3 and Wrap Up: How Will The 2024-25 Season (and particularly IU’s Activity) Demonstrate Some Of This And What We’re Looking For?  

Some relevant videos and articles:

• Sparta v Thebes
• O’Bannon v NCAA
• Curt Flood
• Jim Thorpe
• Mary Lou Retton
• McCaskeys and Kevin Warren

Robie is host of the Trapped in History podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trapped-in-history/id1753424077

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.