Fri Nov 22 01:40:00 UTC 2024: **Indiana Hoosiers Favored to Dominate UNC Greensboro Spartans in Thursday Night Matchup**

BLOOMINGTON, IN – The Indiana Hoosiers (3-0) will look to continue their strong start to the season when they host the UNC Greensboro Spartans (2-1) Thursday night at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. Tip-off is set for 6:30 p.m. ET on FS1.

The Hoosiers, who have won their first three games by an average margin of over 16 points, are currently riding high in the computer rankings. This game serves as a final tune-up before they head to the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament next week.

While Indiana boasts a 2-0 all-time series lead against UNC Greensboro, the Spartans present a more significant challenge than the Hoosiers’ previous opponents. Despite losing key players to graduation and the transfer portal, including their leading scorer, Greensboro is projected to finish second in the Southern Conference. They are currently ranked in the top 200 nationally in KenPom rankings, showcasing their competitive nature. The Spartans are led by fourth-year coach Mike Jones and feature a balanced scoring attack from several guards and wings, led by Kenyon Giles (16.3 PPG) and Donovan Atwell (12.3 PPG).

Indiana’s key to victory will likely lie in dominating the paint, where they possess a significant size advantage. Controlling the interior and limiting Greensboro’s three-point attempts (currently at 36.2% of their points against D1 opponents), will be crucial for securing a comfortable win. The Hoosiers are also expected to rely on the continued strong performances of Myles Rice and Kanaan Carlyle. KenPom predicts a 17-point victory for Indiana with a 94% probability. While Indiana is the heavy favorite, the coaching staff is emphasizing the importance of avoiding complacency before their upcoming tournament.

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