IU Indy, Oakland Seek Momentum in Horizon League Clash

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. (Interstat) — Two teams looking to climb the Horizon League standings will meet Wednesday when the IU Indy Jaguars visit the Oakland Golden Grizzlies in a women’s basketball matchup.

The game, scheduled for Jan. 28, 2026, at the Athletics Center O’rena, features squads with nearly identical records. IU Indy enters at 8-11 overall, while Oakland sits at 7-12.

Both teams are coming off impressive road victories. The Jaguars defeated Northern Kentucky 75-70 last Wednesday, led by 23 points from standout guard Olivia Smith. Oakland posted an 82-71 win at Milwaukee last Saturday, powered by a 24-point, 6-rebound, 5-assist performance from guard Makenzie Luehring.

Smith has been the engine for IU Indy, averaging 17.0 points over her last four games, including a 33-point outburst against Robert Morris on Jan. 15. Her scoring prowess will be critical for a Jaguars team that has struggled offensively in several conference losses.

Oakland will counter with Luehring, who has been on a tear, averaging 21.5 points over her last four contests. Her ability to score and facilitate makes her the focal point of the Golden Grizzlies’ attack.

The matchup is the first of a regular-season series between the teams, who will meet again in Indianapolis on Feb. 11. With the Horizon League tournament seeding at stake, Wednesday’s contest offers a chance for either team to establish a crucial tiebreaker and build positive momentum.

Despite their sub-.500 records, both teams have shown recent signs of life within conference play. IU Indy has won three of its last five, while Oakland has secured two wins in its last three outings.

Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. EST. The Jaguars’ next game is at home against Robert Morris on Feb. 1. Oakland will host Youngstown State on Jan. 31.