Indiana basketball is making waves on the recruiting trail once again — this time by adding serious size and athleticism to its frontcourt. Head coach Mike Woodson and his staff have landed multiple commitments from high-upside prospects, signaling a renewed focus on length, interior defense, and physicality in the paint.
Leading the charge is 4-star forward Trent Sisley, a versatile 6-foot-8 prospect from Heritage Hills (IN). Sisley, who committed to Indiana earlier this year, has been one of the most sought-after players in the Midwest. Known for his high motor, strong rebounding ability, and developing perimeter game, Sisley projects as a future stretch-four who can also guard multiple positions. His commitment marked a major in-state recruiting win for the Hoosiers.
“IU felt like home,” Sisley said after announcing his decision. “Coach Woodson’s plan for me and the opportunity to represent my home state at the next level just made it the perfect fit.”
Joining Sisley in the frontcourt rebuild is Canadian big man Malachi Moreno, a fast-rising 7-foot center out of Georgetown, Kentucky. Moreno, a consensus top-40 prospect in the 2025 class, brings elite rim protection, a strong frame, and a rapidly improving offensive skill set. His length and timing make him a standout shot blocker, and his ability to run the floor has impressed scouts nationwide.
The combination of Sisley and Moreno gives Indiana two elite prospects with very different, but complementary, skill sets. Sisley offers the agility and outside touch of a modern forward, while Moreno provides the interior presence and rebounding that IU has sorely missed in recent seasons.
These additions are crucial for an Indiana team that has struggled with frontcourt depth and consistency in recent years. With the Big Ten continuing to be a league dominated by elite big men, Woodson’s focus on size and interior presence is both strategic and necessary.
Also in the mix is 6-foot-9 power forward Aleks Alston out of Kenwood Academy in Chicago. While not yet committed, Indiana has been heavily involved in his recruitment. Alston is a long, athletic forward with range out to the three-point line and the ability to defend wings and forwards alike. Should he join the 2025 class, he would further deepen Indiana’s arsenal of frontcourt talent.
Coach Woodson has emphasized the need to return Indiana to national prominence by bringing in high-character, high-upside players who can compete at the highest level. By landing top frontcourt prospects like Sisley and Moreno, and positioning themselves well for others, the Hoosiers are showing that they’re serious about that mission.
As the 2025 recruiting class begins to take shape, Indiana’s blend of length, skill, and physicality in the frontcourt stands out. For Hoosier fans, the message is clear — the future in Bloomington is big, both literally and figuratively.