While Rob Phinisee’s stat line against Eastern Michigan doesn’t jump off the page (seven points on 3-of-11 shooting, two assists, two turnovers), the eye test revealed an aggressive and communicative offensive performance from Indiana’s senior point guard.
Upon entering the game for Xavier Johnson in the first half, Phinisee immediately went to work, using ball screens to look for his own shot or find open teammates. The possessions didn’t always end in points. But Phinisee made good reads exploiting mismatches and rejecting the screens when warranted.
In an IU career that has seen Phinisee float in and out of games, his engaged evening against the Eagles is the right start.