Indiana Women’s Basketball Continues To Impress, Tipped To Be Better Than Northwestern
New Season, New Ambitions
The Indiana Hoosiers women's basketball team is off to a strong start in the 2023-24 season, with a 7-1 record. The Hoosiers have won their first four Big Ten games, including a 75-64 victory over No. 15 Iowa. Indiana is now ranked No. 10 in the AP Poll and No. 11 in the Coaches Poll.
Northwestern Struggles To Find Footing
Northwestern, on the other hand, has struggled to find its footing this season. The Wildcats are 4-4 overall and 0-3 in the Big Ten. Northwestern has lost its last two games, including a 74-59 defeat to No. 20 Michigan. The Wildcats are now ranked No. 34 in the AP Poll and No. 36 in the Coaches Poll.
Key Matchup On The Horizon
Indiana and Northwestern will face off on January 26th in Evanston, Illinois. This game will be a key matchup in the Big Ten race. Indiana will be looking to continue its strong start to the season, while Northwestern will be looking to turn its season around.
Indiana’s Strengths
Indiana has several strengths that could make it a contender for the Big Ten championship. The Hoosiers have a strong inside presence, led by 6-foot-4 center Mackenzie Holmes. Holmes is averaging 17.6 points and 9.5 rebounds per game this season. Indiana also has a solid backcourt, led by point guard Grace Berger. Berger is averaging 13.4 points and 5.6 assists per game this season.
Northwestern’s Challenges
Northwestern has a talented roster, but the Wildcats have struggled to put it all together this season. The Wildcats have been inconsistent on offense, and they have also struggled to defend against the three-point shot. Northwestern will need to find a way to improve its consistency and toughness if it wants to compete for the Big Ten championship.
Prediction
Indiana is the better team on paper, and the Hoosiers should be favored to win the game against Northwestern. However, Northwestern has a talented roster and the Wildcats could pull off the upset if they play their best game. Either way, this is a game that should be close and competitive.
