Indiana basketball coach Mike Woodson and Indiana players Luke Goode (career-high 23 points) and Oumar Ballo (21 points, 15 rebounds, four assists, two blocked shots) discuss IU’s 77-76 Big Ten road win at Ohio State.
Indiana Head Coach Mike Woodson spoke to the media following his team’s thrilling 77-76 Big Ten road win over Ohio State on January 17, 2025. The victory, which came down to the wire, was an emotional rollercoaster for the Hoosiers, who battled through adversity to edge the Buckeyes in a dramatic finish.
Woodson praised his team’s resilience after a back-and-forth game that featured numerous lead changes in the final minutes. “We didn’t flinch. That’s the sign of a mature team,” Woodson said. “When it got tight, we executed down the stretch, and that’s what you want from your players in these kinds of games.”
The Hoosiers were led by a stellar performance from sophomore guard Jalen Hood-Schifino, who poured in 23 points and made several key shots in the final moments. Senior forward Trayce Jackson-Davis added a double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds, providing crucial leadership on both ends of the floor.
Woodson highlighted the team’s defense as a key factor in securing the win, particularly in the closing seconds when Indiana managed to limit Ohio State’s scoring opportunities. “Our defense was critical at the end. We forced them into tough shots and got the stops we needed,” Woodson remarked.
The Hoosiers’ victory improved their Big Ten record to 5-2, keeping them in contention near the top of the standings. Woodson acknowledged the challenge of playing on the road but expressed confidence in his team’s ability to handle tough environments. “We’ve got to keep improving,” Woodson said. “But tonight was a great step forward.”
Indiana will look to carry this momentum into their next conference matchup against Michigan on January 20, 2025.
