IU cruises to 79-58 win over Providence behind Race Thompson career day
Indiana got its Maui Invitational started on Monday afternoon against Providence and showed the potential it has, taking down the Friars 79-58.
Coming into the tournament, rebounding the ball was a huge point of emphasis for Archie Miller's squad. Something it struggled with at times in the season opener, IU flipped the script and dominated the boards. The Hoosiers outrebounded the Friars 42-33. That resulted in 11 more field goal attempts and 17 second chance points.
Leading the pack for the Hoosiers was Race Thompson. The redshirt junior came into the game with just two double-digit scoring games in his career. On Monday, however, he paced IU much of the game, finishing with 22 points. His activity on the glass also contributed to 13 rebounds. It was his first career double-double.
Indiana's defense, which came on strong late last season, was extremely effective against Providence. Whether it was the guard pressure or physical play on the block, the Hoosiers forced 13 turnovers and held the Friars to just 37 percent from the field. IU converted 17 points off of those turnovers.
Despite shooting 26 percent from three in its opener, IU raised that to 35.7 percent from deep today. Al Durham, however, connected on three from deep. He finished with 19 points, with 15 in the second half. He also added six rebounds and three assists.
Providence's size did cause fits for Preseason All-American Trayce Jackson-Davis, however. He added 12 points on just 5-of-15 shooting.
Nate Watson and David Duke led Providence with 12 points.
Indiana now turns its attention to Texas. Tip is scheduled for 1:30 pm ET on Tuesday.
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