At the Big Ten Media Day on October 9, 2023, Indiana Hoosiers’ head coach Mike Woodson took the stage to discuss the upcoming season, share his vision for the team, and address the key factors that will shape the Hoosiers’ performance. This annual event gives coaches a platform to reflect on their teams’ progress, challenges, and outlooks, and Woodson didn’t hold back in offering insight into the program’s direction under his leadership.
Reflecting on Last Season
Woodson began by reflecting on Indiana’s 2022-2023 campaign, which saw the Hoosiers return to the NCAA tournament and make a deeper push than in prior years. He emphasized how the team has continued to build on the foundation laid in his first two years, attributing the improvements to the players’ growing understanding of his system. He also touched on how pivotal figures, like Trayce Jackson-Davis and Jalen Hood-Schifino, played a role in Indiana’s return to prominence, while acknowledging their departure leaves a void that must be filled.
Woodson acknowledged that while there were high points last season, consistency remained an issue. “We had moments where we played at a high level, but we also had games where we weren’t as sharp. That’s something we’ve been addressing,” he remarked.
New Additions and Team Chemistry
The discussion shifted toward the roster changes for the 2023-2024 season. With the departure of Jackson-Davis and Hood-Schifino to the NBA, Woodson highlighted the importance of integrating new talent, particularly the incoming freshmen and transfers. He specifically mentioned the high expectations for Mackenzie Mgbako, a five-star recruit, and how he envisions Mgbako contributing immediately.
Woodson also spoke on the need for leadership within the team, particularly from veterans like Xavier Johnson, who returns for another year. “Xavier will be key for us. He’s got experience, and I’m expecting him to take on a bigger leadership role, especially with the younger guys coming in,” Woodson shared.
Building a Stronger Defensive Identity
A major point of focus for Woodson was Indiana’s defensive identity. He emphasized that while the team showed flashes of strong defensive play last season, he wants defense to be a constant for the Hoosiers moving forward. “Defense is what wins championships. We’ve got to be more consistent on that end of the floor,” Woodson said. He reiterated that the coaching staff has been drilling defense throughout the summer and fall practices.
Big Ten Competition
Woodson also weighed in on the competitiveness of the Big Ten, noting that every game in the conference is a battle. He praised the other programs, stating, “The Big Ten is one of the toughest conferences in college basketball. There’s no night off, and we’ve got to be ready every single game.”
### Looking Forward
In closing, Woodson expressed optimism about the future of Indiana basketball. He stressed the importance of hard work, discipline, and the team’s ability to adapt to new challenges. “We’re a work in progress, but I’m confident in this group,” he said. “Our goal is always to compete at the highest level and bring Indiana basketball back to where it belongs.”
Fans can look forward to the official video and transcript of Mike Woodson’s full comments, which provide further insight into his strategies, expectations, and vision for the upcoming season.