2023-24 Indiana basketball player profile: Payton Sparks – Inside the Hall

As the upcoming college basketball season draws near, we shift our focus from analyzing other Big Ten programs to providing player-by-player previews of the 2023-24 Indiana roster.

Today, we continue with junior Payton Sparks.

Previously: Jakai Newton, Mackenzie Mgbako, Gabe Cupps, Kel’el Ware, Malik Reneau, Kaleb Banks, CJ Gunn

When Payton Sparks joined the Hoosiers as a transfer from Ball State last spring, his eagerness to become part of the team was unparalleled.

Hailing from Winchester, Sparks showcased his talent as one of the top big men in the Mid-American Conference during his two seasons with the Cardinals. Earning All-Conference honors twice, Sparks started all 62 games in Muncie, achieving 22 double-doubles and scoring in double figures 47 times.

However, after completing two seasons at Ball State – with his second season under the guidance of former Hoosier Michael Lewis – Sparks yearned to compete at a higher level. With the recent implementation of a one-time transfer rule in college basketball, Sparks took advantage of the opportunity and entered the transfer portal.

“I decided to enter the transfer portal because I wanted to play at the highest level of college basketball,” Sparks explained to Inside the Hall last spring. “I aimed to join a power five program.”

Sparks wasted no time in committing to Indiana, just days after visiting the campus in late March.

“IU has always been a dream school for me,” Sparks shared after committing to the Hoosiers. “I witnessed the greatness of the players who came before me. Being given the chance to join IU is mind-blowing. It’s been an incredible experience. IU has always been a dream school for me, and I couldn’t pass up on this opportunity.”

As the season approaches, Sparks’ dream of representing Indiana is about to become a reality.

Standing at 6-foot-10 and weighing 258 pounds, as listed on IU’s updated roster, Sparks is expected to make a significant impact as a frontcourt player coming off the bench.

The fact that Sparks might serve as a substitute highlights the depth and talent of the backcourt assembled by coach Mike Woodson this season.

Alongside Sparks, Indiana boasts the talents of Malik Reneau and Kel’el Ware, both former 5-star recruits.

Sparks’ ability to dominate the boards and excel in the paint should seamlessly transition to the competitive environment of the Big Ten. Last season, he ranked third in the MAC in both offensive and rebounding percentage. He also boasted an impressive 59% field goal percentage from 2-point range and ranked 10th in the league in block percentage.

With his excellent hands, solid footwork, and strong work ethic, Sparks is poised to make a positive impact on Indiana’s roster.

Bottom Line: As a lifelong dream comes true, Sparks is thrilled to be part of Indiana basketball. His size and physicality make him a formidable force in the Big Ten frontcourt, which is not always the case for players making the leap to a higher level. His teammates spoke highly of him and his abilities during media day, and he is expected to quickly become a leader in the locker room.

Quotable: “I believe IU has an outstanding offense, and it’s a perfect fit for me defensively as well. The people at IU are amazing overall. They genuinely care and follow through on their promises. Choosing IU just felt like coming home to me.” – Sparks on his decision to join the Hoosiers.

Filed to: Payton Sparks