In Episode 6 of the *East 17th Street* podcast, a must-listen for Indiana Hoosiers basketball fans, recruiting expert Jamie Shaw from On3 provided valuable insights into Indiana University’s recruiting landscape. Hosted by passionate IU insiders, this episode dives deep into the current state of Indiana’s recruiting efforts, potential targets, and the overall strategy employed by Mike Woodson’s coaching staff.
One of the key takeaways from the conversation with Shaw is the elevated profile that Indiana basketball is experiencing on the national recruiting stage. Since Mike Woodson took over as head coach, there has been a noticeable shift in how IU approaches recruiting, moving away from simply targeting regional talent to going after the nation’s elite players. Shaw credits Woodson’s NBA background and his ability to develop talent for the Hoosiers’ growing appeal, noting that players are increasingly drawn to Woodson’s player-first approach and focus on preparing athletes for the next level.
Shaw also highlighted some of the top recruits that Indiana is focusing on for the coming years, including major 2025 and 2026 targets. The discussion touched on the recruiting battles that IU is engaged in with other basketball powerhouses, such as Michigan, Kentucky, and Duke. Shaw emphasized that while Indiana is in strong contention for several top prospects, the competition remains fierce.
Of particular note was Shaw’s assessment of Indiana’s ability to land top-tier recruits moving forward. He stressed that IU’s success on the court, along with continued player development, would be crucial to maintaining momentum in recruiting. Woodson and his staff have shown they can win big recruiting battles—most notably with players like 2023 five-star Mackenzie Mgbako—but maintaining consistency is key to long-term success.
The episode concluded with Shaw predicting a positive trajectory for Indiana basketball’s recruiting efforts. While challenges persist, there is optimism around the program’s ability to attract talent and solidify its place among the nation’s elite programs.
Overall, Episode 6 of *East 17th Street* provides a detailed look into Indiana’s recruiting situation and leaves fans excited about the future under Mike Woodson’s leadership. Jamie Shaw’s expertise and in-depth analysis offered a clearer understanding of what’s happening behind the scenes and what IU fans can expect in the coming seasons.