Broadcaster John Fanta shares thoughts on IU after watching practice

  • Oct 22, 2024 8:06 am in

Fox Sports broadcaster and reporter John Fanta was in Bloomington on Tuesday for Indiana’s practice.

After watching the Hoosiers, Fanta shared his thoughts on the team via X (formerly Twitter). Here are Fanta’s observations:

On point guard Myles Rice:

“The immediate takeaway from Indiana practice: Myles Rice’s leadership. He’s talking a ton on both ends and is so crafty. A blur in transition. Once he gets in the open floor, something productive happens either for him or his teammates. Averaged 14.8 PPG, 3.8 APG last year. Stud.”

On the improved perimeter play:

“Malik Reneau told me the big difference for this Indiana team from last yr is the perimeter. He said when there’s pressure in the post, he feels like there’s multiple go-to options that can drill the 3. Luke Goode will deliver in that column & Mackenzie Mgbako’s evolved his shot.”

On the impact of Oumar Ballo:

“This doesn’t come as a surprise, but Oumar Ballo is dominating this Indiana practice. His physicality and presence inside makes him such a tough cover. Will be a double-double machine for the Hoosiers as he was at Arizona. Another takeaway: He’s made strides as a passer.”

On sophomore guard Kanaan Carlyle:

“Kanaan Carlyle is really tough to contain off the dribble with his quickness. The key for the Stanford transfer: Will he make people pay when he’s left open from downtown? He’s worked a lot on the shot over the summer. If he’s connecting, it gives Indiana a different dimension.”

On McDonald’s All-American Bryson Tucker:

“Indiana 4-star freshman Bryson Tucker will help the Hoosiers as a reserve this year and some around the program believe he’s got the most pro upside on this roster. The 6-7 wing has added around 15 pounds of muscle since arriving to IU. Can attack off the dribble at a high level.”

On sophomore Mackenzie Mgbako:

“Mackenzie Mgbako looks as advertised as the reigning Big Ten Co-Freshman of the Year. He grew to 6-foot-9 over the summer, added muscle to his frame + has impressed in Indiana’s practice session. He checks off so many boxes and his ability to make 3s is pivotal for the Hoosiers.”

In addition, Fanta shared this brief recap with some additional thoughts on the Hoosiers:

Indiana plays its first exhibition on Sunday afternoon at Tennessee.

(Photo credit: IU Athletics)

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