IU basketball vs. South Carolina player ratings: Myles Rice is the key

Indiana's bench provides a spark in win over Gamecocks

Trayce Jackson-Davis continues to lead the way for the 18th-ranked Indiana Hoosiers, but it was the bench that provided a much-needed spark in Tuesday night's 81-68 win over the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Jackson-Davis finished with 21 points and 9 rebounds, but it was freshman guard Jalen Hood-Schifino who led the Hoosiers in scoring with 22 points. Hood-Schifino was 8-of-14 from the field and 4-of-7 from three-point range.

Race Thompson added 14 points and 7 rebounds for Indiana, while Trey Galloway chipped in with 10 points.

Myles Rice's importance on full display

One of the most encouraging signs for the Hoosiers on Tuesday night was the play of sophomore forward Myles Rice.

Rice finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds, and he was a force on the defensive end, blocking three shots.

Rice's emergence gives Indiana a much-needed boost in the frontcourt. The Hoosiers have been without starting forward Malik Reneau since December, and Rice has stepped up in his absence.

Rice provides energy and defense for Hoosiers

Rice's impact on the game goes beyond the stat sheet. He brings energy and intensity to the floor, and he is a tenacious defender.

Rice's defense was on full display in the second half against South Carolina. He blocked two shots in the first five minutes of the half, and he helped to limit the Gamecocks to just 32% shooting from the field in the period.

Rice's energy and hustle are contagious, and he is quickly becoming a fan favorite in Bloomington.

Rice has bright future with Hoosiers

Rice is still just a sophomore, but he has already shown that he has the potential to be a star for the Hoosiers.

Rice is a skilled scorer, rebounder, and defender, and he is only going to get better with experience.

If Rice continues to develop, he could be one of the best players in the Big Ten next season.