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IU Indy Men’s Basketball on Recruiting, NIL, and a Culture of Winning

Luke Bosso and Ben Howlett talk recruiting, NIL realities, and building a winning culture for IU Indy men's basketball in Indianapolis.

Podcast Summary

On today’s show I sat down with Luke Bosso, the director of athletics at Indiana University Indianapolis, and Ben Howlett, the head coach of IU Indy men's basketball.

They discuss the challenges and opportunities in revitalizing IU Indy’s basketball program and creating a culture of winning.

Bosso and Howlett share their personal journeys, strategies for building a competitive team in the current college sports landscape, and the importance of community and alumni support.

They also discuss the new James T. Morris arena, its projected opening in late 2026, and how it will enhance the school's sports programs.

If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast.

You are going to learn about:

  • A Culture Shift for IU Indy Men’s Basketball 

  • Why the Right College Fit Matters More than Money

  • James T. Morris Arena

Thank you to our partners:
ClusterTruck

Check out these great clips from the show:
01:26 Guest Introduction: Luke Bosso and Ben Howlett, IU Indy
03:47 Luke's Journey to Becoming Director of Athletics
05:50 Ben Howlett's Coaching Philosophy and Challenges
13:53 Implementing 'The System' at IU Indy
25:50 Recruitment and NIL Challenges
28:38 The Paycheck Dilemma in Sports
29:23 Choosing the Right Fit Over Money
30:08 Challenges of Team Identity and Player Retention
30:46 Fundraising and Transparency in College Sports
33:36 Balancing Coaching and Recruiting
35:25 Building a Winning Culture
42:16 Recruiting Indiana Talent
51:17 Indiana's Basketball Culture and Food
53:45 Favorite Local Eateries
54:31 Fishing and Outdoor Activities
55:14 Indiana Motor Speedway Experience
59:29 The New Stadium and Jim Morris
01:04:43 The Value of Sports for Kids
01:09:40 Hidden Gems and Notable Hoosiers

Guest(s)

Luke Bosso & Ben Howlett

Date Published

January 28, 2026

This podcast is sponsored by

Sweetwater

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

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Know someone with a great Indiana story? Nominate them as a guest for the Get IN podcast and help us share real Hoosier voices.

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A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.
A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.