Indiana Hoosiers’ Malik Reneau Expected to Return for Crucial Big Ten Clash

EVANSTON, Ill. — The Indiana Hoosiers are expected to welcome back one of their top scorers, Malik Reneau, for Wednesday’s Big Ten matchup against Northwestern at Welsh-Ryan Arena, according to sources. Reneau, who has missed the last five games due to injury, is anticipated to be available for the 7 p.m. tip-off.

Head coach Mike Woodson confirmed Tuesday that Reneau would undergo a fitness test before the team’s flight to Evanston to determine his availability. “He’s been more active recently and able to participate more,” Woodson said. Reneau, averaging 14.1 points per game in 14 starts, has been a key contributor for the Hoosiers (14-5, 5-3 Big Ten).

In Reneau’s absence, Oumar Ballo has stepped up, averaging 18.7 points and 12.7 rebounds over the last six games. Ballo, the team’s leading scorer and rebounder, has been instrumental in keeping Indiana competitive. However, the Hoosiers have struggled recently, going 3-2 without Reneau, including a disappointing 85-60 loss to Iowa and a narrow overtime win against Ohio State.

Northwestern (11-7, 2-5 Big Ten) presents a formidable challenge. The Wildcats are 9-1 at home this season and rely heavily on their dynamic wing duo of Nick Martinelli and Brooks Barnhizer. Martinelli leads the team with 20 points per game, while Barnhizer, despite missing four games due to injury, averages 18.4 points and 9.3 rebounds. Both players have been pivotal in Northwestern’s recent back-to-back overtime games.

Indiana has struggled against Northwestern under Woodson, losing all four matchups since the 2021-22 season. The Hoosiers’ last victory at Welsh-Ryan Arena came on February 10, 2021, during Archie Miller‘s tenure. Northwestern, aiming for its third consecutive NCAA tournament appearance, is projected to win six of its remaining seven home games, according to KenPom.

The Wildcats boast a top-25 defense nationally but have struggled offensively in Big Ten play, ranking 16th in points per possession. They excel in forcing turnovers, with opponents averaging 14.2 turnovers per game. Indiana will need to focus on limiting Martinelli and Barnhizer’s impact, controlling the boards, and finishing strong at the rim to secure a much-needed road victory.

Wednesday’s game, set for a sold-out Welsh-Ryan Arena, will be broadcast on BTN at 7 p.m. ET. The Hoosiers’ chances of victory are slim, with KenPom projecting a four-point Northwestern win and a 36 percent chance for Indiana.