Indiana University men’s basketball coach Darian DeVries has emphasized the urgency of constructing a cohesive team and establishing a championship culture as he embarks on his tenure in Bloomington. DeVries, appointed as the 31st head coach of the program in March 2025, brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles at Drake and West Virginia. (Forbes, Indiana University Athletics)
Building a Unified Team
DeVries is focused on assembling a roster that functions as a unified team rather than a collection of individual talents. He stresses the importance of players fitting together both on and off the court to achieve collective success. This approach contrasts with previous seasons where talent acquisition was prioritized over team cohesion. (insidethehall.com)
Embracing the Transfer Portal
Given the current roster’s composition, DeVries is utilizing the transfer portal to fill immediate needs. Notable additions include Conor Enright from DePaul, Reed Bailey from Davidson, and his son, Tucker DeVries, from West Virginia. These moves aim to enhance the team’s competitiveness in the short term while maintaining a focus on long-term development. (Indiana Daily Student, The Crimson Quarry)
Establishing a Championship Culture
DeVries is committed to instilling a work ethic-driven culture at Indiana. He emphasizes that success begins with hard work and that resources, while important, do not guarantee victories. His previous success at Drake and West Virginia, where he turned around underperforming programs, reflects his ability to build winning cultures from the ground up. (insidethehall.com, Indiana University Athletics, Indiana University Athletics)
Looking Ahead
As DeVries continues to shape the Indiana men’s basketball program, his focus remains on creating a team-oriented environment that values hard work, cohesion, and a commitment to excellence. His strategic use of the transfer portal, combined with a strong cultural foundation, positions the Hoosiers for potential success in the upcoming seasons.
