The Assembly Call IU Basketball Podcast and Postgame Show

Jerod Morris
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  • BASKETBALL
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Following your Hoosiers is always more fun with friends. Come hang out with us after every Indiana basketball game, and every Thursday night, as our team of hosts -- Jerod Morris, Andy Bottoms, Ryan Phillips, and Brian "The Coach" Tonsoni dissect every angle of IU basketball, as we've been doing since 2011. We are equal parts unabashed fandom and objective analysis, with plenty of laughter along the way. If you're looking for knee-jerk analysis and hot takes, this is NOT the show for you. But if you want a show that isn't afraid to critique play while always staying supportive of players, then this is the place for you.

  1. 12 SEPT

    [1084] AC Unscripted: Hoops on Kirkwood ... and more!

    Indiana athletics finds itself in a rare golden moment, prompting an unscripted celebration of everything going right in Bloomington. This edition of The Assembly Call brings together Coach Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, and Jerod Morris for a freewheeling conversation about the positive momentum across multiple sports and some exciting new developments in basketball. Going completely off-script without segments or a formal banner moment, we dive into what feels like the best time for Indiana athletics in decades. Soccer is ranked #1 nationally, football sits at 2-0 with genuine playoff aspirations, volleyball is thriving, and basketball is generating legitimate excitement under the new DeVries regime. Key Discussion Points Include: Hoosier the Bison's successful rollout - From the parachute entrance to Jeremy Gray's "outstanding" acting in promotional videos, the mascot has been a hit with fans young and oldCrimson Cast Live event recap - Ryan's experience on stage at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater discussing football with Mitchell Paige and Griffin GonzalezModern basketball philosophy - A deep dive into what "big vs. small ball" really means and how movement, not size, defines modern basketballRecruiting challenges and trust in DeVries - Whether Indiana's recent struggles have damaged the brand and why this coaching change feels differentCollege sports realignment concerns - Ohio State's potential push for unequal revenue sharing and what it means for programs like IndianaThe conversation's highlight comes with the announcement of Hoops on Kirkwood - replacing traditional Hoosier Hysteria with an outdoor event on Kirkwood Avenue from 8-10 PM on October 2nd. We're unanimously enthusiastic about this creative approach to connecting the basketball program with students and the community. Unscripted Tangents and Philosophy The show takes entertaining detours through topics ranging from favorite coaches to listen to (Shaka Smart, Matt Painter, and yes, even Brad Underwood), to speculation about future sports documentaries, to the importance of stepping away from social media when sports stop bringing joy. Throughout, there's an underlying theme of cautious optimism mixed with genuine excitement about the direction of Indiana athletics under Scott Dolson's leadership. Plus, as always, plenty of praise for the athletic department's creative thinking, excitement about connecting basketball to campus culture, and the recognition that this feels like the most positive moment for Indiana sports in anyone's recent memory. That's all in this unscripted edition of The Assembly Call. On the mics: Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, and Jerod Morris See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 26m

  2. 29 AUG

    [1083] What Have We Learned About IU Basketball Under Darian DeVries?

    Indiana basketball fans get a chance to reflect on the Hoosiers' successful three-game sweep in Puerto Rico while also building excitement for what promises to be a historic football season. This edition of Assembly Call Radio brings together Coach Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Andy Bottoms, and Jerod Morris to discuss the early signs from the DeVries era and the anticipation building around both basketball and football. Segment 1: Headlines and Community Connection [00:00:00 - 00:20:00] The banner moment focuses on Coach DeVries' community engagement during move-in week - helping students move into dorms, appearing at the freshman rally, and visiting Homefield Apparel's new Kirkwood store. The hosts emphasize how refreshing it is to see a coach embracing all aspects of the job after years of perceived resistance to community involvement. Discussion includes the release of the Big Ten's top 40 player rankings with Lamar Wilkerson checking in at 29th and expectations for Tucker DeVries to land in the top 15. The conversation touches on Indiana's current "first four out" status in ESPN's early bracketology and upcoming exhibitions against Marian and Baylor. A significant portion focuses on football expectations, with both hosts projecting 8-9 wins and discussing the challenge of managing fan expectations in what could be another special season under Curt Cignetti. Segment 2: Puerto Rico Trip Analysis [00:21:00 - 00:45:00] Special guest Galen Clavio joins to discuss the three-game Puerto Rico sweep. The hosts emphasize looking at trends rather than results given the competition level, but note encouraging signs about pace, ball movement, and the team's ability to come back from double-digit deficits in the final two games. Key observations include the emphasis on three-point volume, improved spacing and movement compared to recent years, and the development of team chemistry among players who had never played together before. The conversation highlights how this represents a complete philosophical shift toward modern basketball. Galen also promotes the Back Home Network's expansion with new shows including Football Weather, The Big Red Carpet, and the upcoming Crimson Cast Live event at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater. Segment 3: Individual Standouts and Random Tangents [00:45:00 - 01:31:00] The final segment dives deeper into individual performances, particularly praising Taton Conway's ball pressure defense and improved offensive showing, plus Reed Bailey's versatility as a passing big man who can handle the ball. The hosts discuss how this team's depth could be a major asset with multiple players capable of contributing. The conversation takes several entertaining detours including Cowboys documentary discussions, predictions about future sports documentaries, and speculation about who would play Curt Cignetti in a hypothetical Indiana football movie. Throughout, there's underlying optimism about both programs heading into their respective seasons. Plus, as always, analysis of a trip none of them actually watched, excitement about finally seeing modern basketball concepts at Indiana, and the challenge of tempering expectations while embracing the obvious improvements in program culture and direction. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call. On the mics: Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Andy Bottoms, and Jerod Morris (with special guest Galen Clavio) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 32m

  3. 7 AUG

    [1082] First Little Glimpse of the DeVries Era

    Indiana basketball fans got their first real look at the new era under Darren DeVries as the Hoosiers dominated their opening exhibition game in Puerto Rico 98-47. This edition of The Assembly Call brings together Coach Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Galen Clavio, and Bob Moats to break down a game none of them actually watched - relying instead on social media updates, live blogs, and video clips to piece together what happened. The banner moment says it all: 21 three-point attempts in the first half alone. While Indiana only hit six of them, the sheer volume represents everything fans have been hoping to see - a complete departure from the basketball of recent years. Key discussion points include: First impressions of the starting five and what their roles might beTrent Sisley's breakout performance and what it means for depthThe European influence and basketball IQ on displayEarly defensive concerns and growing pains with communicationWhat the pace and ball movement suggest about this new systemBreaking down video clips and unofficial stats from Puerto Rico The hosts emphasize not reading too much into results against inferior competition, but the style, energy, and philosophy on display have everyone excited about the direction of the program. Plus, as always, plenty of basketball analysis from a game nobody actually watched, excitement about movement and spacing finally coming to Assembly Hall, and optimism about what this new era might bring. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call. On the mics: Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Galen Clavio, and Bob Moats See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 7m

  4. 4 JUL

    [1081] Prince Alexander-Moody Scouting Report and Non-Con Schedule

    Indiana basketball fans got a couple pieces of legit offseason news with the release of the non-conference schedule and the program's first recruiting commitment under Darren DeVries. This edition of Assembly Call Radio, with hosts Coach Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, and Andy Bottoms, breaks down what these developments mean for the new era of Hoosier basketball. Segment 1: Hoosier Headlines [00:00:00 - 00:29:59] After months of roster construction and staff building, the schedule release brings fans one step closer to seeing if DeVries' vision can translate to wins on the court. The big news is Prince Alexander Moody's commitment - the program's first 2026 recruit who represents the "DeVries prototype": a 6'4" shooting guard who fits the system's emphasis on floor spacing and shooting ability. Other headlines covered include the completion of DeVries' coaching staff, Anthony Leal's denied waiver appeal (ending his college career), and the mic'd-up practice videos showing coaches emphasizing fundamentals like ball pressure defense and proper spacing. The segment closes with a heartfelt thank you to Leal for his contributions to the program. Segment 2: Non-Conference Schedule Analysis [00:30:00 - 00:54:59] The hosts break down Indiana's 11-game non-conference slate, identifying four major tests surrounded by seven more manageable opponents. The marquee games include: November 9th vs Marquette (Chicago) - Early season test against a well-coached program December 6th vs Louisville (Indianapolis) - Neutral site against a top-20 preseason team December 13th at Kentucky - The big one everyone's been waiting for, back at Rupp Arena November 25th vs Kansas State (home) - Protecting Assembly Hall against a Big 12 opponent Both hosts project a 9-2 non-conference record, with the Kentucky road game being the most difficult challenge. They praise the regional appeal of the schedule, giving fans concrete games to look forward to attending or watching. The conversation includes early bracketology implications and how this schedule sets up better than previous years' efforts. Segment 3: Mailbag [00:55:00 - 01:37:02] The final segment tackles listener questions about overall record predictions and the challenge of connecting with an almost entirely new roster. The hosts project an 11-9 Big Ten record (20-11 overall), which should be good enough for tournament consideration. A thoughtful discussion emerges around a fan's question about feeling disconnected from the program due to constant roster turnover. The hosts acknowledge this is a real challenge in the transfer portal era and share their own strategies for dealing with it - focusing on the style of play rather than individual players, and waiting until the season starts to really invest emotionally in the roster. Jerod Morris joins late in the segment to add his perspective on the changing nature of college basketball fandom and how the off-season feels different now with so much roster uncertainty. Plus, as always, thoughts on staff completion, the challenge of maintaining fan engagement in college basketball's new landscape, and early excitement about a different brand of basketball coming to Assembly Hall. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call. On the mics: Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Andy Bottoms, and Jerod Morris See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 37m

  5. 29 MAY

    [1080] The Bison is Back! (Plus: Puerto Rico, Huber's, and ... a Speeding Ticket?)

    What a wild ride this episode was! Coach, Ryan, and Jerod were joined by the man of the hour, Galen Clavio, for a celebration that took some unexpected turns. From technical difficulties to traffic stops, this episode has it all. Key Topics Covered: [2:24] Banner Moment: The Bison is Back! - The big news everyone's been waiting for as Indiana officially brings back the bison mascot, with Galen getting his long-awaited dream realized[19:25] Hubers Winery Event Recap - Galen reports live from the annual Hoosier Connect event featuring new basketball coach Darren DeVries and football coach Curt Cignetti, with over 900 fans in attendance[32:00] Puerto Rico Trip Discussion - Breaking down Indiana basketball's upcoming August trip to Puerto Rico and why these international trips are so valuable for team building with a completely new roster[40:36] LIVE DRAMA: Galen Gets Pulled Over! - In a podcast first, Galen literally gets pulled over by police while driving back from Hubers and talking to us live on air (don't worry, he's fine!)[1:04:00] Mailbag Segment - Answering listener questions about everything from Kentucky game nerves to how the bison will be incorporated into basketball, plus scholarship situation updates[1:16:00] Basketball Philosophy & Expectations - Discussing Coach DeVries' comments about being "undersized" at center but having multiple ways to protect the rim, plus his emphasis on having great shooting depth Hopefully this episode captures what makes our show special - the unpredictable moments, genuine friendships, and shared excitement about Indiana sports. Between celebrating Galen's bison campaign success and witnessing podcast history with that traffic stop, it was an unforgettable night. The energy around both football and basketball programs feels genuinely different right now, and it's exciting to be along for the ride as this new era begins in Bloomington. (Also, I dropped in a little song at the end, related to the discussion we had about social media.) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 31m

  6. 8 MAY

    [1079] Offseason Update as Roster Nears Completion

    This edition of The Assembly Call dives into Indiana's complete roster overhaul and what fans might expect heading into the 2025-26 season. After inconsistent results under previous regimes, Indiana basketball is embracing a paradigm shift toward a more modern, movement-oriented system. The conversation highlights DeVries' business-like approach to program building and the significant shift in roster construction. Key discussion points include: The new-look roster featuring primarily mid-major transfers like Lamar Wilkerson and Tucker DeVriesThe team's potential defensive identity with aggressive ball pressure rather than traditional rim protectionReasonable expectations for the upcoming season in a competitive Big TenThe contrasting styles of DeVries vs. Woodson, particularly the shift to a more face-up, perimeter-oriented offenseThe possibility of Luke Goode and Anthony Leal returning with additional eligibility waivers We speculate about where this roster might fall in the Big Ten pecking order and why Indiana's apparent change in approach and culture is a welcome development. Plus, as always, plenty of basketball analysis, listener questions, and a candid discussion about maintaining realistic expectations while embracing the positive changes within the program. That's all in this edition of The Assembly Call. On the mics: Coach Brian Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, Bob Moats, and Jerod Morris See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 29m

  7. 16 APR

    [1078] Emergency Pod: Lamar Wilkerson Commits to IU

    It's an episode of The Assembly Call ... without anyone from The Assembly Call! But when an emergency pod was called for, and no AC members were available, the other members of the Back Home Network came together to fill in. So join Galen Clavio from Crimson Cast and Bob & Mike from Xs and Joes as they discuss the exciting Lamar Wilkerson commitment from many angles. Those who listen to Xs and Joes know that Mike doesn't get this enthusiastic very often. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 4m

  8. 11 APR

    [1077] Offseason Update, Newcomer Scouting Reports, and Tourney Talk

    Indiana basketball is in a transition phase as coach Darren DeVries begins building his staff and roster, with the hosts urging fans to remain patient during the transfer portal process. In this episode, Coach Tonsoni, Ryan Phillips, and Jerod Morris discuss the early additions of Connor Enright (DePaul) and Reed Bailey (Davidson), examine Tony Adragna's film breakdowns of DeVries' offensive and defensive systems from West Virginia, and reflect on lessons from Florida's NCAA championship run that could apply to Indiana's program moving forward. Key Topics: Early roster additions and remaining transfer portal targetsFilm analysis of DeVries' offensive system featuring increased movement, screening and spacingDefensive philosophy emphasizing team concepts over excessive helpThe importance of "adaptability" in college basketball successNCAA Tournament analysis and how experienced rosters contributed to tournament successSpeculation about the future of NIL in college basketball Here is the full video of Tony's analysis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4PogSGgaNs See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 48m
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Following your Hoosiers is always more fun with friends. Come hang out with us after every Indiana basketball game, and every Thursday night, as our team of hosts -- Jerod Morris, Andy Bottoms, Ryan Phillips, and Brian "The Coach" Tonsoni dissect every angle of IU basketball, as we've been doing since 2011. We are equal parts unabashed fandom and objective analysis, with plenty of laughter along the way. If you're looking for knee-jerk analysis and hot takes, this is NOT the show for you. But if you want a show that isn't afraid to critique play while always staying supportive of players, then this is the place for you.

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