Upcoming Showdown
This week, IU Indianapolis prepares to face off against the Milwaukee Panthers in an exciting Horizon League matchup. The game is set for Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. EST. IU Indianapolis is coming off a thrilling 84-79 victory over the Youngstown State Penguins, led by DeSean Goode's impressive 23-point performance.
Home Turf Advantage
The IU Indianapolis Jaguars have performed decently on their home ground with a 5-5 record. However, the team has struggled in close contests, yet to secure a win in games decided by less than four points. On the other hand, the Milwaukee Panthers boast a solid 8-4 conference record, showcasing their offensive prowess, especially in rebounding.
Key Stats Comparison
Milwaukee Panthers excel in offensive rebounds, ranking fifth nationally, thanks in part to Jamichael Stillwell's 3.9 rebounds per game. The team shoots an impressive 47.0% from the field, consistently outpacing opponents like IU Indianapolis, which has allowed an average shooting percentage of 45.9%.
The Jaguars, while struggling at times, have maintained a 42.7% field goal percentage. This number slightly trails the Panthers' defensive average of 44.1% allowed to opponents. It's a testament to the formidable defense the Jaguars will face in Milwaukee.
Star Performers to Watch
Keep an eye on Paul Zilinskas, a standout performer for IU Indianapolis, delivering an average of 17.2 points a game along with a solid 41.5% three-point shooting rate. His ability to sink an average of three three-pointers per game gives the Jaguars a critical perimeter edge.
Contributing to the team's recent form, Jarvis Walker has been consistent, tallying 14 points per game over the past ten contests. The Panthers counter with Themus Fulks, whose performance anchors their score, averaging 15.1 points per game. Additionally, Kentrell Pullian adds depth with an average of 12.3 points and 4.9 rebounds over the recent stretch.
Recent Performance Analysis
Examining the last ten games, the Jaguars have faced challenges, posting a 3-7 record. They averaged 72.2 points, supplemented by 28.8 rebounds, yet their defense allowed 79.1 points per game. The Panthers, however, hold a slightly better form with six wins out of the last 10 games, averaging 75.5 points per outing while holding their opponents to just 70.3 points.
The Anticipation Builds
This matchup promises intense action with both teams vying to outmaneuver each other on the court. The Jaguars will aim to capitalize on their home advantage, while the Panthers look to extend their strong conference record. All eyes will be on Goode and Zilinskas, whose performances might tip the scales for IU Indianapolis.