Indiana basketball is making waves on the national recruiting scene once again, as the Hoosiers have secured a spot on the final list of schools for five-star recruit Boogie Fland. The dynamic guard from Archbishop Stepinac High School in New York has narrowed his choices to Indiana, Kentucky, and Alabama—three programs battling fiercely for one of the top players in the 2024 class. With a decision expected by early November, the spotlight is firmly on Indiana’s ability to close out a recruitment that could help redefine its national standing.
Fland, a top-15 prospect in most major recruiting rankings, has long been pursued by blue-blood programs due to his electric scoring ability, elite quickness, and leadership qualities. Kentucky has traditionally been viewed as the frontrunner, boasting a long history of producing NBA-ready guards. Alabama, too, has surged into relevance under Nate Oats, known for his fast-paced offense and player development track record. Despite these powerhouses in the mix, Indiana has quietly and effectively made up ground in Fland’s recruitment, thanks in large part to the aggressive efforts of head coach Mike Woodson and his staff.
Woodson, who has prioritized building Indiana’s national recruiting presence since taking over, is positioning the program to consistently contend for top-tier talent. After successfully landing highly regarded players like Malik Reneau, Kel’el Ware, Mackenzie Mgbako, and Liam McNeeley, adding Fland would be a statement that Indiana is not just competing with traditional powers—it’s beating them on the recruiting trail.
What sets Fland apart is his complete offensive skill set. He can score at all three levels, facilitate for teammates, and lock down opposing guards on defense. Analysts have compared his upside to recent NBA-ready guards who’ve thrived in college systems that give them freedom and structure—something Indiana has begun to offer under Woodson. Fland’s visit to Bloomington reportedly went very well, with sources noting the program’s culture, facilities, and development plan resonated strongly with both him and his family.
Landing Fland would mean more than just getting a talented player. It would signal a return to form for Indiana, a program with a storied history that’s been striving to reestablish itself among college basketball’s elite. While the “blue blood” label is often debated, programs like Indiana, Kentucky, and North Carolina have the tradition and fan base to back up their status. For Indiana, signing a five-star guard over schools like Kentucky and Alabama would help solidify that reputation and could serve as a catalyst for more elite commitments in future classes.
With the recruiting battle coming down to the wire, Hoosier fans will be watching closely over the coming weeks. If Mike Woodson can secure Boogie Fland’s commitment, it will be a major recruiting victory and another step toward restoring Indiana as a powerhouse on the national stage.