Indiana basketball is set to undergo significant changes under the leadership of new coach Darian DeVries. As he crafts his inaugural squad, one standout player capturing attention is Troy guard Tayton Conerway. Known for his dynamic playstyle, Conerway has emerged as a key prospect linked to the Hoosiers this spring.

Conerway’s journey through college basketball showcases resilience and growth. Initially overlooked in the 2020 class, he spent three years at the junior college level before transferring to Troy. His tenure at Grayson College saw modest averages, but by transitioning to Ranger College and then Tarleton State, he began to shine. During the 2021-22 season, Conerway averaged 18.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, establishing himself as a formidable force on both ends of the court. The following year, despite starting only four games out of 35, he maintained impressive statistics with an average of 15.7 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. His dedication earned him recognition as a first-team All-American in the NJCAA for the 2022-23 season.

This past season marked a turning point for Conerway, who became a full-time starter for Troy. Leading the team to a shared Sun Belt regular-season title, he contributed significantly with averages of 14.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. Defensively, Conerway set a single-season record with 98 steals, placing third nationally in steals per game. His efforts helped Troy secure a spot in the NCAA tournament, where they faced Kentucky in the opening round. Despite the loss, Conerway demonstrated composure against a higher-seeded opponent, scoring 12 points alongside four rebounds and assists. With plans to enter the transfer portal, Conerway aims to extend his eligibility into the 2025-26 season, potentially joining Indiana.

The potential addition of Tayton Conerway to Indiana's lineup signifies a commitment to building a balanced and competitive team. His physicality and tenacity make him a valuable asset on defense, while his ability to create plays offensively highlights his versatility. Although his three-point shooting remains an area for improvement, his knack for facilitating and finishing at the rim bodes well for future contributions. Coach DeVries’ vision for assembling a cohesive unit underscores the importance of recruiting players like Conerway, whose work ethic and adaptability exemplify the qualities needed to elevate Indiana's program to new heights.