IU Basketball Guards Gabe Cupps and Jakai Newton Out for Two Months Due to Injuries
Bloomington, IN – Indiana University basketball is facing a significant setback as guards Gabe Cupps and Jakai Newton have both been ruled out for the next two months due to injuries. The news comes as a blow to the Hoosiers, who were counting on both players to contribute heavily in the backcourt during the upcoming stretch of the season.
Cupps, a freshman, was expected to provide valuable depth and versatility to the IU backcourt after a standout high school career. He has been sidelined with a knee injury, with team officials confirming that he will undergo rehabilitation for the next eight weeks. Meanwhile, Newton, a sophomore transfer, is dealing with an ankle injury that will require extended rest and recovery. Newton had shown flashes of potential in the early part of the season, adding athleticism and defensive prowess to Indiana’s rotation.
Indiana head coach Mike Woodson expressed disappointment over the injuries but emphasized that the team would need to adjust accordingly. “We hate to see both Gabe and Jakai out for an extended period, but we have depth and we’ll need other guys to step up,” Woodson said in a press conference. “Injuries are part of the game, and we’ll work through it. I have confidence in our players to rise to the occasion.”
The absence of Cupps and Newton leaves Indiana with fewer options in the backcourt, putting added pressure on veteran guards like Xavier Johnson and Jalen Hood-Schifino to handle more minutes and leadership responsibilities. IU will also look to other young players to fill the void and provide depth as the Hoosiers continue their pursuit of a strong season in the Big Ten.
The team has not yet announced a specific timeline for the players’ return, but both Cupps and Newton are expected to be back in time for the heart of the conference schedule.
