Iowa City, IA – Iowa Hawkeyes head coach Fran McCaffery knows his team faces a daunting task when they host the Indiana Hoosiers on Saturday. At the forefront of McCaffery’s concerns is Indiana’s dominant center, Oumar Ballo.
“Ballo is a problem,” McCaffery acknowledged during a press conference earlier this week. “He’s incredibly skilled for a big man. He can score inside and out, rebound, and even pass the ball. He’s going to be a major challenge for us.”
Ballo has been a force for the Hoosiers this season, averaging a double-double with 14.3 points and 9.7 rebounds per game. His presence in the paint has significantly impacted Indiana’s offense and defense, making him a focal point of opposing teams’ game plans.
McCaffery is well aware of the challenges Ballo presents. “He’s a physical presence down low,” McCaffery said. “He’s strong, he’s agile, and he’s got a good touch around the basket. We’re going to have to be physical with him, but we also have to be smart. We can’t foul him and send him to the free-throw line.”
Iowa will likely turn to sophomore forward Filip Rebraca to try and contain Ballo. Rebraca has shown flashes of brilliance this season, but he will face a significant test against the talented Indiana center.
“Filip is a good player,” McCaffery said. “He’s strong, he’s physical, and he’s got a good basketball IQ. But Ballo is a different animal. It’s going to be a tough matchup for him.”
In addition to Ballo, Iowa will also have to contend with Indiana’s talented guard play. Sophomore Jalen Hood-Schifino has emerged as a star, while senior Trey Galloway provides a steady presence on both ends of the floor.
“They’re a well-coached team with a lot of talent,” McCaffery said. “It’s going to be a tough game, but we’re up for the challenge.”
The matchup between Iowa and Indiana promises to be a highly competitive and entertaining affair. With Ballo leading the way, Indiana will be a tough out for any team in the Big Ten. McCaffery and his team will need to be at their best to come away with a victory.