Indiana and Minnesota Clash in a High-Stakes Half-Time Showdown

Current Standings and Records

Minnesota Golden Gophers are currently at 6 - 4, while Indiana Hoosiers stand at 7 - 2. This Big Ten battle at 6:30 p.m. ET at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall holds significant implications for both teams. Minnesota's defense, which has allowed only 62 points per game this season, will pose a tough challenge for Indiana's offense.

However, Minnesota's recent loss to Michigan State on Wednesday, where they suffered a 90 - 72 defeat, doesn't tell the whole story. Players like Dawson Garcia and Mike Mitchell Jr. had good games, with Garcia dropping a double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds, and Mitchell Jr. scoring 17 points.

Previous Matchups and Series History

Indiana has dominated the series against Minnesota, winning 9 out of their last 10 games. The recent matchups have seen Indiana emerge victorious with scores like 70 - 58 (Mar 06, 2024), 74 - 62 (Jan 12, 2024), and 61 - 57 (Jan 25, 2023). These wins have been a testament to Indiana's dominance on the court.

But Minnesota will be looking to turn the tide on Monday. They last faced Indiana in March and fell 70 - 58. Can they avenge their defeat and make history? Only time will tell.

How to Watch and Ticket Information

The game will take place on Monday, December 9, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. ET. It will be held at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington, Indiana. You can catch the action on the Big Ten Network, or follow it through the CBS Sports App. Online streaming is available on fuboTV (Try for free. Regional restrictions may apply.). Ticket cost is $2.00.

Player Performances in Recent Games

In Indiana's recent matchup against Miami (Ohio), Oumar Ballo was the offensive standout, dropping a double-double with 14 points and 18 rebounds. He had faced some difficulties against Sam Houston on Tuesday, but this game was a step in the right direction. Myles Rice also made a difference, going 6 for 7 and scoring 17 points.

For Minnesota, Dawson Garcia's performance in the loss to Michigan State was notable. His double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds showed his impact on the game. Mike Mitchell Jr.'s 17 points also contributed to the team's efforts.

Odds and Predictions

Indiana is a big 10.5 - point favorite against Minnesota, according to the latest college basketball odds. The oddsmakers had a good feel for the line, as the game opened with the Hoosiers as a 9.5 - point favorite. The over/under is set at 140.5 points. SportsLine's advanced computer model provides college basketball picks for every single game, including this one. Get your picks now.

Indiana's Big Ten Debut - A Battle on the Court

Game Start and Early Struggles

Bloomington, Ind. was buzzing as the Hoosiers and Golden Gophers prepared to tip off. However, some wireless issues at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall caused a slight delay, but the fans were eager to see the action. Oumar Ballo, listed as questionable, gave it a shot despite the uncertainty. Gabe Cupps was out, leaving the starting lineup with Oumar Ballo, Mackenzie Mgbako, Trey Galloway, Malik Reneau, and Myles Rice for Indiana. On the Minnesota side, Mike Mitchell Jr., Femi Odukale, Lu’Cye Patterson, Frank Mitchell, and Dawson Garcia took the court.

Early on, the defense seemed to be a non-factor as both teams struggled to contain each other. Indiana was taken advantage of on turnovers, with the Golden Gophers getting easy transition buckets. Dawson Garcia got off to a hot start with 6 points, while the guard play for the Hoosiers was lackluster.

Mid-Game Turnaround

As the game progressed, Indiana's bench came to the rescue. Bryson Tucker, Kanaan Carlyle, and Luke Goode provided the defensive nous needed to take control. Indiana pushed Minnesota's guards out past the 3-point line, forcing them into lower-percentage shots. Tucker, in particular, found his rhythm, scoring 8 points and spreading his mid-range game all over the floor.

Myles Rice also had his moments, but he had to leave the floor briefly due to an injury. The Hoosiers managed to pull ahead, with Oumar Ballo and Malik Reneau contributing 11 and 10 points respectively at halftime. Minnesota's Mike Mitchell Jr. had 8 points, but their offense had stalled.

Second-Half Dominance

In the second half, Indiana picked up where it left off. Minnesota struggled to score, going almost 8 minutes without a field goal. The Hoosiers doubled up the Gophers on points in the paint, showing their dominance inside. Kanaan Carlyle's 3-pointer settled things down when Minnesota made a run.

Five Hoosiers reached double-figure scoring, with Oumar Ballo leading the way with 18 points. Malik Reneau and Bryson Tucker also had 16 points each. Indiana's 19 assists on 28 field goals demonstrated their team play.

The Final Stretch

Indiana pushed its lead to 21, but Minnesota made a late run, cutting the deficit to 14. However, the Hoosiers recovered and sealed the victory with a final score of 82-67. Oumar Ballo's block and finger wave at the end added an exciting touch to the game.

This Big Ten opener was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams showing their strengths and weaknesses. It's a game that will be remembered for the Hoosiers' dominant performance and their ability to turn things around when it mattered most.