How Indiana’s FISU Games Trip to Peru Could End NCAA Drought

Indiana basketball is heading into the offseason with a schedule that looks far different from previous years. The program’s upcoming trip to Peru for the FISU America Games, running from July 20 through Aug. 1, gives coach Darian DeVries and his new-look roster extra time to build chemistry before the season begins. For a team trying to end a three-year NCAA Tournament drought, that added preparation could matter in a big way.

Players are expected to arrive on campus June 1, and workouts will begin almost immediately. Unlike standard offseason rules, the international event allows Indiana’s coaching staff to spend extended time on practices, film study, and individual development sessions. DeVries explained that the structure creates more flexibility than previous foreign tours.

“You’re not really restricted at all like those previous trips,” DeVries said during a speaking engagement in Carmel. “We get more of an opportunity to spend time with them. And especially in the film, that side of it where you can really sit down and break down, individual workouts, what you’re doing, team workouts, those types of things.”

Extra Practice Time Matters

Instagram | @markusburtonn | @aiden_sherrell3 | DeVries built the nation’s No. 4 transfer class, led by Markus Burton and Aiden Sherrell.

Indiana received 10 extra practices before last year’s Puerto Rico tour, though those sessions came within a shorter time frame. This year’s setup gives the staff more room to teach without rushing through systems and rotations.

“I think the thing you’ve got to be most careful of is still summertime, but it just allows us just more time to do a lot more teaching and coaching because you’re not so constricted by time,” DeVries said. “You can really take your time and really kind of install all the details of everything you’re wanting to do.”

That approach becomes even more important because Indiana is rebuilding much of its roster. Trent Sisley stands as the only returning scholarship player from last season’s team.

A New-Look Roster

DeVries assembled the nation’s No. 4 transfer class, adding major talent through the portal. Former Notre Dame guard Markus Burton, ranked No. 24 overall, headlines the group alongside Alabama forward Aiden Sherrell, ranked No. 12. Indiana also added three freshmen as the staff focused on frontcourt size, Power Four experience, and a more balanced offensive approach.

Last season’s roster leaned heavily on three-point shooting. The current group appears built with greater versatility and physical presence.

The Peru trip also continues a growing trend for DeVries, who has now taken teams on international tours in four straight seasons. The FISU tournament is viewed internally as a valuable learning experience, especially for a roster still learning how to play together.

Indiana plans to release more details about the Peru trip later this summer. Until then, the focus remains on building continuity, sharpening fundamentals, and preparing a reshaped roster for a season carrying significant expectations.