Indiana Extends Offer to High-Flying Guard Josh Lindsay: How Would He Fit?
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Indiana extends a scholarship to junior forward Josh Lindsay, a standout from Indianapolis that Woodson says fits the Hoosiers’ system
The Hoosiers’ recruiting machine just hit a new target. In a statement released early Thursday, the University of Indiana offered a full‑ride scholarship to 18‑year‑old forward Josh Lindsay, a product of the city’s high‑school scene and a player that coach Mike Woodson has long described as a “perfect fit” for the program’s brand of basketball. The offer, which came after a summer of intense recruiting, marks the third scholarship offer Woodson’s staff has extended to a local player during the 2025 cycle.
A high‑school star with a national profile
Lindsay, a 6‑9, 215‑lb swing‑man from Indianapolis, led his high‑school squad in points (27.3 PPG), rebounds (12.8 RPG), and blocks (3.1 BPG) during his senior campaign at Central High. He was named first‑team All‑Metro by the Indianapolis Star and earned the distinction of Indiana’s most‑touted power forward by Rivals.com, a 4‑star rating that places him in the top tier of prospects in the state. Beyond the numbers, his style—characterized by a quick first step, solid footwork in the post, and an ability to finish at the rim—has drawn comparisons to former Indiana greats like Donyell McNair and Evan Barkley.
Lindsay’s résumé also boasts international experience. He played for the United States under‑18 national team at the FIBA Americas Championship, where he averaged 7.2 points and 4.9 rebounds per game while helping the squad secure a gold medal. The exposure to high‑level competition further impressed Woodson, who noted that “Lindsay’s ability to compete against top talent in an international setting tells you he can adjust to the pace and physicality of the NCAA.”
Woodson’s comments on fit and expectations
In the official press release, Woodson stated that Lindsay’s skill set aligns with the team’s focus on “stretch‑forward play, solid fundamentals, and the ability to protect the rim.” He added that Lindsay’s height and length would give the Hoosiers a new dimension in the post while his agility would allow him to guard both the power forward and center positions.
“We’re looking for players who can play through the transition from high school to college quickly,” Woodson said. “Josh has shown a level of maturity and basketball IQ that is above his age. He has the ball‑handling and passing instincts to create opportunities for the team, and his defensive presence is a natural fit for our system.”
The coach also emphasized the leadership aspect of the deal. “Lindsay has been a team captain in high school, and that’s an attribute we value deeply,” Woodson added. “He can step into the locker room and be a positive influence on teammates—something we need for a team that’s building around a mix of upper‑classmen and incoming freshmen.”
How Lindsay will help the 2025 roster
The 2025 recruiting class is set to fill a spot at power forward for the 2025–26 season. With the departure of senior forward Jordan Allen (who will graduate this spring) and the potential departure of freshman center Mackey McClung if he chooses to transfer, the team has an opening for a player with Lindsay’s attributes. The coaching staff believes his ability to stretch the floor and defend multiple positions will allow the Hoosiers to remain competitive in the Big Ten’s fast‑paced style.
“We’re excited to have him on board,” Woodson said. “His presence gives us a lot of flexibility in how we structure our line‑ups. He can play inside, mid‑range, and stretch the floor, and he’s solid on defense, so he can be a double‑digit contributor from day one.”
Context in Indiana’s recruiting landscape
Woodson’s decision to sign a local prospect comes after a highly competitive recruiting environment for the Hoosiers. Earlier this summer, the program received offers from other high‑profile prospects such as Isaiah Smith (G) from Bloomington, who committed to the school after a strong recruiting cycle, and Tyler Wade (F) from Detroit, who remains an active recruit. The Indiana coaching staff has consistently prioritized local talent, a strategy that has yielded players like DeMarcus Kearse and Chris Baker in past recruiting waves.
Lindsay’s offer is part of a broader effort by the program to rebuild a roster that can compete for a Big Ten title. In the 2024–25 season, the Hoosiers finished 12–17 overall and 5–13 in conference play, a record that underscored the need for fresh talent. Woodson’s emphasis on “player development” and “building a culture of accountability” is expected to come to fruition with the addition of a player like Lindsay, who embodies those values.
Linking to additional resources
The SI article includes a highlight reel of Lindsay’s senior‑year performance on the SI.com video platform, showcasing his footwork, finishing moves, and defensive acrobatics. It also links to an in‑depth profile on Rivals.com that details his recruiting trajectory, college interest list, and a breakdown of his statistical production across three high‑school seasons. A separate link directs readers to an interview with Woodson on Indiana Athletics’ official website, where the coach elaborates on the team’s philosophy and the role Lindsay will play in the upcoming season.
What this means for Indiana basketball
By securing a local, high‑rated forward, Indiana’s coaching staff is taking a calculated step toward reestablishing its competitive footing in the Big Ten. The offer to Josh Lindsay underscores the program’s commitment to building a roster that blends local talent with national interest, a blend that has historically defined the Hoosiers’ success. If the transition from high school to college proves seamless, Lindsay could become a cornerstone for Indiana’s next wave of basketball success.
Read the Full Sports Illustrated Article at:
[ https://www.si.com/college/indiana/basketball/indiana-offer-josh-lindsay-fit-hoosiers-2025 ]