Indiana Hoosiers men’s basketball head coach Darian DeVries makes surprising Announcing that Mackenzie Mgbako hes been made…

In a surprising turn of events, Indiana Hoosiers men’s basketball head coach Darian DeVries has announced that sophomore forward Mackenzie Mgbako has been appointed as the team’s captain for the upcoming 2025–26 season. This decision comes amidst a period of significant transition for the Hoosiers, as DeVries seeks to reshape the program following a series of roster changes.​

Mgbako, a 6-foot-8 Nigerian-American forward, has been a standout player for Indiana since his arrival in 2023. In his freshman season, he averaged 12.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, earning Big Ten co-Freshman of the Year honors. His consistent performance and leadership qualities have made him a central figure in the team’s dynamics.​

Coach DeVries, who took over the program in March 2025, expressed his confidence in Mgbako’s ability to lead the team. “Mackenzie embodies the qualities we value in a leader—dedication, resilience, and a team-first mentality. His experience and commitment to excellence make him the ideal choice to guide our team through this new chapter,” DeVries stated.​

The appointment of Mgbako as captain is particularly noteworthy given the recent departures from the team. Several key players, including Malik Reneau and Myles Rice, have entered the transfer portal, leaving a void in leadership and experience. DeVries’ decision to entrust Mgbako with the captaincy signals a strategic move to stabilize the team and foster a cohesive unit moving forward.​

Mgbako’s journey to this leadership role has been marked by determination and adaptability. Originally a five-star recruit and McDonald’s All-American, he initially committed to Duke before choosing Indiana. His transition to college basketball was seamless, as he quickly became a reliable contributor on the court. Beyond his statistics, Mgbako is known for his work ethic and ability to inspire his teammates.​

As captain, Mgbako will be expected to mentor younger players and serve as a liaison between the coaching staff and the team. His leadership will be crucial in implementing DeVries’ vision for the program, which emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and a competitive spirit.​

The Hoosiers are set to face a challenging schedule in the upcoming season, with matchups against top-tier opponents in the Big Ten Conference. Mgbako’s leadership will be instrumental in navigating these contests and striving for a successful campaign.​

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Mgbako embraces his new role. His appointment as captain not only reflects his individual achievements but also represents a commitment to building a resilient and unified team under Coach DeVries’ guidance.​

With Mgbako at the helm, the Indiana Hoosiers aim to reestablish themselves as a formidable force in college basketball, blending experienced leadership with emerging talent to achieve their goals in the 2025–26 season.