The Spartans had Kalin Lucas, IU didn't.
As simple as that sounds, it made a huge difference Tuesday night in Assembly Hall.
He only had six first-half points, but he made more of an effect on the game than any player.
IU's 10:16 without a field goal added the game's separation, but Lucas' baskets kept the Hoosiers at bay when they made attempts to comeback.
The score was 60-48 when he decided it was time to take the game for his team. He hit three consecutive shots and scored seven of his 13 points for the night.
"Every time we thought we were gonna cut it and started to make a little dent, get a little moment, then Kalin would come back with a big shot," Crean said.
Lucas was 6-of-11 on the night and also dished out four assists to the big bodies on his team. Draymond Green had 14 points and Raymar Morgan had 10 as a result.
Their effectiveness inside made open looks available for Chris Allen, who had 10 buckets on the night.
