Don Fischer isn’t ready for retirement yet. At 78 years old, the voice of the Indiana University Hoosiers is still going strong. He began this role in 1973, doing radio play-by-play broadcasts for men’s basketball and football. Fischer is most renowned for basketball, having called three national championships under Bob Knight.
Much has changed since Knight’s tenure. Indiana has seen four coaches step in since his 29-year reign ended in 2000, with the latest being Darian DeVries, hired last month. We caught up with Fischer to discuss Indiana basketball, football, and his career.
Note: This interview has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.
Awful Announcing: What are your initial thoughts on Darian DeVries?
Don Fischer: “I think he’s going to do a great job. At his press conference, I listened intently because I wanted to hear what he said in comparison to what I heard (football coach Curt) Cignetti say when he first came here. So much was similar to what Cignetti said: getting character players and understanding that there’s going to be a culture change. The culture is going to be different than what Indiana’s experienced previously. Honestly, that aspect of it thrilled me with DeVries talking about how he was going to build this program. I’m as excited about Indiana football and basketball as I ever have been.”
What will be his biggest challenge?
“The roster is the first thing because he’s got to build it. Right now, I think he’s got a total of four players. One is his son (Tucker DeVries), who’s a transfer from West Virginia, and I think he’s a very talented player. He’s also brought in two others from the portal: Conor Enright, who played for him at Drake for two years, and Reed Bailey from Davidson. He’s got a lot of work to do and I don’t think he’s got his full staff yet. He’s working hard to get this thing off the ground.”
How have fans reacted to the new coach?
“Most people are pretty excited about what this guy brings to the table. In his seven years as a head coach, six at Drake and one at West Virginia, he has had tremendous success. Great mentors like Greg McDermott and Dana Altman helped shape his coaching style. I believe he has cultivated a culture based on those experiences and will construct a successful roster here.”
Since Kelvin Sampson resigned in 2008 due to NCAA infractions, Indiana is on its fourth coach while Houston has been to two Final Fours. How do fans feel about him?
“Anyone who doesn’t regret how things turned out with Kelvin Sampson may not understand basketball. Sampson has been phenomenally successful since returning to college basketball. The NCAA changed the rules after his departure, questioning how serious those original rules were. I’ve spoken with Kelvin a few times since his Indiana days; I admire him as a coach. He attracts strong character players and builds a solid culture around them.”
“However, many still hold resentment towards him for placing Indiana on probation. Personally, I do not share that sentiment.”
Turning to football, how does Curt Cignetti keep the momentum going?
“He constantly battles complacency. He believes in the philosophy of ‘less is more,’ as evidenced by his hour and 50-minute practices, which are intense and focused. This approach has resulted in no losing seasons throughout his career, showcasing his phenomenal coaching abilities.”
What will you be paying attention to at the spring game on April 17?
“Everyone will be watching what Fernando Mendoza brings, especially after a solid year at California despite struggling with a poor offensive line. Here at Indiana, the offensive line has improved significantly, which is vital for a successful football team.”
What’s the secret to your longevity?
“Good genes, for starters. My grandparents lived to 91 and 98, and my mom will turn 99 soon. I’ve kept myself in good shape and have had no serious illnesses. I’ve been fortunate. My twin brother, a Lutheran pastor, retired at 70, and I’ve continued for eight more years beyond that. It’s not a burden—I’m still motivated to prepare for games.”
What do you do in the offseason?
“I play golf, although the weather hasn’t allowed me to enjoy it much this spring. I’ve only been able to play three times since the season ended. Golf is my passion; it’s my hobby. While I’ve never been an exceptional player, I’ve maintained a single-digit handicap for many years, and I’m near that level again now.”
