This program will forever hold a place in my heart as it represents the first NCAA tournament game that my father and I have attended together — and hopefully the first of many more!
First off…I like point out irony when I see it — how ironic is it that Indiana’s first tournament game in 6 years would be held at Archie’s former stomping ground?
We stopped off and ate at a place called S.W. Clyborne’s in West Chester, just south of Dayton, which has this incredible (of all things) bologna sandwich — one that I’ve made a copycat version of that everyone in my loves. I thought it would be good for him to experience the original! After a great meal, we got back on the road for the last 20 minutes or so of the drive.
Pulling into the venue, I was surprised to how packed it was for the game prior between Texas Southern and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. We arrived about 15 minutes before the tip…and had to park quite a ways away from the front gate. We thought we were getting there quite early!
In front of a pro-IU crowd, the game was competitive throughout and Indiana was able to pull away just enough at the end, with the score being a little bit closer than it should have been (a couple of silly fouls, one of which was on a three point make). Trayce Jackson-Davis dominated again in the paint, pouring in a steady 29 points from end to end, including a couple of clutch free throws to help seal the victory. Indiana shot the ball poorly (the first 10 minutes was really ugly) and struggled mustering up baskets, especially from distance — but this game’s savior proved to be Jordan Geronimo, who came off the bench to contribute 15 points. In question prior to the game due to an injury sustained in the Big Ten tournament just a couple of days prior, Geronimo gave our Hoosiers a much needed lift at pivotal moments in the game, whether a timely 3-point splash or a couple of offensive rebounds and tip-ins.
After the game, my dad and I hung around for a little bit to let the traffic flow out. The players were out mingling with family and friends afterwards, so we walked over to that area…and Xavier Johnson was kind enough to oblige for a quick picture. Capped off a great night!
Estimated Value: $15-$20
Date: March 15, 2022
Venue: University of Dayton Arean (Dayton, Ohio)
Opponent: Wyoming
Score: Indiana 66, Wyoming 58
Game Number: 34
Record: 21-13