As the dust settles on the 2025 NCAA tournament, one team stands out as the biggest snub of all – the West Virginia Mountaineers. Despite a strong season and impressive performances, they were left out of the tournament, much to the disappointment of their fans and players. However, they are not alone in this disappointment, as the Indiana Hoosiers also find themselves on the list of top snubs.
The Hoosiers had a rollercoaster of a season, with ups and downs that kept fans on the edge of their seats. But despite their efforts, they were unable to secure a spot in the tournament. And just when they thought things couldn’t get any worse, they were hit with the news of their head coach, Mike Woodson, leaving the team. This departure had everyone bracing for a reset, leaving the team and fans in a state of chaos.
But amidst all this chaos, the Hoosiers made a bold move – they announced a $7 million splash to secure the services of a top college basketball player. This move was seen as a statement of intent, a sign that the Hoosiers were not going to let this setback hold them back. However, it seems that even this big announcement may not be enough to keep the team together.
Reports have emerged that one of the Hoosiers’ star players, who was expected to lead the team next season, is set to enter the transfer portal. This news has sent shockwaves through the college basketball community, as it is a clear indication that the $7 million splash may not have the desired effect.
The player in question is none other than junior guard, James Blackmon Jr. He was the leading scorer for the Hoosiers this season, averaging 17.0 points per game. His departure would be a huge blow to the team, as he was expected to be a key player in the upcoming season. But it seems that the lure of playing for a top program may be too strong for Blackmon to resist.
This news has left the Hoosiers in a precarious position, as they now face the possibility of losing their top scorer and leader. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of the $7 million splash, as it was meant to attract top talent to the team. But with Blackmon’s potential departure, it seems that the Hoosiers may have to go back to the drawing board.
However, all hope is not lost for the Hoosiers. They still have a strong core of players, including sophomore forward, Thomas Bryant, who averaged 11.9 points and 5.8 rebounds per game this season. They also have incoming freshman, De’Ron Davis, who is expected to make an immediate impact on the team. With these players and the addition of the $7 million recruit, the Hoosiers still have the potential to make a strong run in the upcoming season.
But the bigger question is, why would Blackmon want to leave a team that has invested so much in him? The answer may lie in the recent coaching change. With Woodson’s departure, Blackmon may feel uncertain about the team’s direction and his role in it. He may also be tempted by the opportunity to play for a top program and showcase his skills on a bigger stage.
Whatever the reason may be, the Hoosiers must act fast to address this situation. They cannot afford to lose a player of Blackmon’s caliber, especially after making such a big investment. They must find a way to convince him to stay and be a part of the team’s future success.
In conclusion, the Indiana Hoosiers may have made a big splash with their $7 million announcement, but it seems that it may not be enough to keep their top players from leaving. The departure of Mike Woodson and the potential loss of James Blackmon Jr. have left the team in a state of uncertainty. But with a strong core of players and the addition of the $7 million recruit, the Hoosiers still have the potential to make a strong comeback in the upcoming season. It’s now up to the team and its management to make the right moves and prove that they are not just a one-hit wonder, but a force to be reckoned with in the world of college basketball.