In a display of resilience and leadership, Indiana forward Malik Reneau shook off a recent health scare to guide the Hoosiers to a critical Big Ten road victory on Monday night. Less than 72 hours removed from an emergency room visit, Reneau showcased his toughness, scoring 26 points and helping Indiana secure a 76-73 win over Northwestern in Evanston.
The sophomore standout had been questionable leading up to the game after experiencing flu-like symptoms over the weekend that required hospital attention. According to head coach Mike Woodson, Reneau was battling severe dehydration and fatigue that left his status in doubt as the Hoosiers prepared to face a Northwestern team that had been unbeaten at home in Big Ten play this season.
“We honestly weren’t sure if Malik was going to be able to go,” Woodson said postgame. “For him to not only play but dominate the way he did, it shows how special he is and how much heart he has.”
From the opening tip, Reneau looked locked in. Despite any lingering effects from his illness, he was aggressive in the paint, finishing through contact and anchoring Indiana’s offensive attack. He shot an impressive 11-for-15 from the field and added six rebounds and three assists, providing the steady interior presence the Hoosiers needed to snap a two-game losing streak.
Indiana’s backcourt of Trey Galloway and Mackenzie Mgbako also contributed key moments, but it was Reneau who repeatedly answered whenever Northwestern made a push. Late in the second half, with the Wildcats cutting Indiana’s lead to one possession, Reneau calmly converted back-to-back post moves to keep Indiana ahead.
“Malik just kept telling us he was good,” Galloway said. “You could see the focus in his eyes. He wanted this one.”
For Indiana (16-13, 8-10 Big Ten), the victory couldn’t have come at a better time. With postseason hopes still flickering, winning on the road in a hostile environment provided a needed confidence boost heading into the final stretch of conference play.
Northwestern (20-9, 11-7 Big Ten), meanwhile, struggled to slow Reneau despite throwing double-teams his way in the second half. Boo Buie led the Wildcats with 24 points, but their defense couldn’t come up with the stops they needed down the stretch.
Beyond the box score, Reneau’s performance was a testament to perseverance. In an era when players are often held out for precautionary reasons, his ability to overcome a serious health concern and play at such a high level is already becoming part of Hoosier lore.
“Malik showed what it means to be a leader,” Woodson added. “That’s the kind of guy you want going into battle with.”
Indiana returns home later this week looking to build on this momentum, and with Reneau back in form, their prospects suddenly look a lot brighter.
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