The Cleveland State Vikings will face off against the IU Indianapolis Jaguars on March 15, 2025, at 18:30 EST in Indianapolis. This matchup marks the first meeting of the season between these two teams within the Horizon League. Cleveland State enters the game with a record of 17-7 overall and 7-6 in conference play, while IU Indianapolis holds a record of 8-13 and 4-8 in the Horizon.
Cleveland State is coming off a solid performance where Colbi Maples scored 25 points in a 69-61 victory over the Northern Kentucky Norse. The Vikings have shown their offensive strength this season, averaging 70.3 points per game, while outscoring opponents by an impressive 11.5 points per game. Their shooting accuracy stands at 44.1% from the field.
In contrast, the Jaguars have struggled this season but have maintained a competitive edge at home, boasting a 7-4 record in Indianapolis. IU Indianapolis ranks seventh in the Horizon for team defense, allowing an average of 67.5 points per game and holding opponents to a shooting percentage of 43.8%. The Jaguars have managed to shoot 39.2% from the field this season, which is slightly above the average opponents’ shooting percentage allowed by Cleveland State.
Team Performance and Key Players
Both teams are looking to capitalize on their respective strengths. For the Jaguars, Hailey Smith has been a key contributor, averaging 9.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, and two steals per game. Additionally, Nevaeh Foster has shown promise, averaging 1.4 made three-pointers over the last ten games.
On the Vikings’ side, Izzi Zingaro leads with an average of 15.6 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, while Jada Leonard contributes 12.7 points and 2.3 rebounds over the same span. These players will be crucial in determining the outcome of this contest.
As the season progresses, both teams have had varying recent performances. The Jaguars have split their last ten games with a record of 4-6, averaging 62.8 points, while their opponents have managed 66.5 points per game. The Vikings, meanwhile, hold a 5-5 record in their last ten games, averaging 64.2 points against opponents who average 63.0 points per game.
With both teams eager to improve their standings in the Horizon League, fans can anticipate an engaging matchup as the Cleveland State Vikings take on the IU Indianapolis Jaguars this evening.
