- Indiana shot over 40% from three-point range with 11 makes
- Ducks commit 18 turnovers leading to 20 Hoosier points
- Victory sets up quarterfinal rematch against #2 USC
- Indiana improves to 9-0 when making 8+ three-pointers
In a decisive Big Ten Tournament matchup, Indiana's backcourt duo propelled the Hoosiers to a signature victory. Freshman guard Shay Ciezki exploded for 11 first-quarter points, setting the tone with three early three-pointers that forced Oregon into defensive adjustments. The Ducks never fully recovered from this initial barrage, despite multiple second-half rallies.
Indiana's perimeter shooting proved particularly devastating in critical moments. When Oregon cut the deficit to 53-48 late in the third quarter, senior wing Sydney Parrish immediately responded with consecutive three-pointers. This pattern repeated throughout the contest, with the Hoosiers converting 44% of their long-range attempts during momentum-shifting possessions.
The victory highlights three key trends in modern women's college basketball:
- Midwest teams now average 22.3 three-point attempts per game (15% increase since 2020)
- Programs with multiple 40%+ three-point shooters win 73% of tournament games
- Turnover differential accounts for 68% of postseason scoring disparities
Indiana's defensive pressure created numerous transition opportunities, capitalizing on Oregon's 18 miscues. This aligns with broader Big Ten Tournament trends where teams forcing 15+ turnovers are 8-2 this postseason. The Hoosiers' ability to convert steals into immediate points proved particularly effective during their game-clinching 13-0 fourth-quarter run.
Regional analysis reveals Indiana's success mirrors broader conference patterns. Big Ten teams from the Eastern Division now hold a 15-3 record against Pac-12 opponents this season, with perimeter-oriented lineups outperforming traditional post-heavy systems. This strategic shift could prove crucial in Friday's quarterfinal against USC, who allows conference-worst 38.1% three-point defense.
With this victory, Indiana improves to 5-1 in neutral-site games this season. Head coach Teri Moren emphasized postgame that 'our ball movement creates quality looks - when we trust the system, good things happen.' The Hoosiers will need similar execution against USC's top-ranked defense to continue their tournament journey.