Transcript: Everything Mike Woodson said at Hoosier Hysteria – Inside the Hall

Indiana coach Mike Woodson engaged in a brief interview with Rhett Lewis during Friday’s Hoosier Hysteria at Assembly Hall.

Here’s the full transcript of Woodson’s remarks in a five-minute interview near midcourt:

On the significance of events like Hoosier Hysteria in showcasing Indiana’s basketball culture and support for the IU program:

“Throughout the years, Indiana has consistently boasted the most devoted fans in college basketball.”

On the goals for IU basketball this season:

“When I first arrived here a few years ago, our focus was on winning a Big Ten title. I want to give a shoutout to Teri Moren and her team for their amazing accomplishment of winning a Big Ten title. However, our next step is to win a national championship.

“That’s the sole reason why I returned. It’s never been about me. It’s about the players I coach, my family, my daughters, my immediate family, and the fans.

“And I must add this: when all of you return home tonight, do me a favor. Take a moment and say a prayer for Bob Knight and his family because, make no mistake, Bob Knight is the embodiment of Indiana basketball.”

On the impact of players like Trayce Jackson-Davis and Race Thompson and the potential legacies that Xavier Johnson and Trey Galloway can build:

“We will certainly miss those guys. Their time here was truly special during the two years I spent with them. But as a coach, my staff and I must move forward and prepare for this upcoming season.

“I love the composition of our team. They put in a lot of work this summer. However, there is still much work to do for Mike Woodson to lead this group to success on both ends of the court. We will get there, but it will take time. Nevertheless, I am pleased with our progress and where we stand today, knowing that there is still much work ahead.”

On the style of winning basketball that this year’s team will bring:

“It’s truly unbelievable. We have 10 new faces on this team who are not yet acquainted with the essence of Indiana basketball and the passion of our fanbase. It’s truly indescribable.

“Only time will reveal the impact when they step foot on this court in front of our fans and experience how special it is.

“I also want to express gratitude to our president, Pam Whitten, and our athletic director, Scott Dolson, because I wouldn’t be here today without them. Thank you all for being here tonight. It means a great deal to both the women’s program and the men’s basketball program. Let’s also show support for Tom Allen and his team tomorrow.”

Filed to: Hoosier Hysteria, Mike Woodson