SIU Edwardsville Cougars vs. Indiana Hoosiers Pick & Prediction NOVEMBER 6th 2024

Preview and Prediction

Malik Reneau is determined to elevate his performance to a higher level this upcoming season.

In a charity exhibition game on October 27th against Tennessee, Reneau scored 10 consecutive points in the final stretch, giving a glimpse of what he is capable of achieving this season for Indiana. As the No. 17 Hoosiers prepare to open their season under the leadership of coach Mike Woodson, Reneau is eager to showcase his potential on the court.

After averaging 15.4 points and 6.0 rebounds per game last season, Reneau is determined to take on a bigger role this year. However, his first priority is to stay on the court for longer periods of time. Last season, he fouled out of seven games, limiting his playing time to an average of 28.7 minutes per game.

"Staying on the floor is crucial for me," Reneau emphasized. "It has been emphasized by the coaching staff that I need to be able to play longer minutes. If I am not on the court, it hinders our team's performance in many ways."

Woodson also wants to see Reneau take more shots, particularly from the 3-point line. Despite a decent percentage of 15 out of 45 shots made last season, Indiana lacked production from beyond the arc. Woodson encourages Reneau to take advantage of opportunities to shoot from long range and have confidence in his abilities.

The Hoosiers have retained all their starters from last season, with the exception of NBA first-round pick Kel'el Ware. Additionally, Woodson has added a strong transfer class, including former Arizona center Oumar Ballo, a 7-footer who was a first team All-Pac 12 selection for the past two seasons.

After failing to qualify for any postseason tournaments last year, Indiana has high expectations for this season, aiming to not only make it to the NCAA tournament but also make a deep run in March.

On the other hand, SIU Edwardsville is projected to finish sixth in the Ohio Valley Conference. The team lost four starters from last season's 17-win team, but their one returning starter is a rare fifth-year senior who has remained loyal to the program. Point guard Ray'Sean Taylor, who scored 15 points in their recent win against Westminster (Mo.), is known for his competitive spirit and team-oriented mindset.

The Cougars are hoping for significant improvements from guards Desmond Polk and Brian Taylor II, while forwards Ring Malith and Myles Thompson, who were part of the Division I National Junior College Athletic Association championship team, are expected to make an immediate impact.

Indiana has a perfect record against SIU Edwardsville, winning both of their previous meetings, including a convincing 83-60 victory in December 2016.

PREDICTION

SIU Edwardsville Cougars

Indiana Hoosiers