Indiana Basketball: Is Jeremy Hollowell Ready for a Breakout 2013-14 Season?

When Jeremy Hollowell arrived at Indiana a season ago for his freshman year, he was a high-profile recruit. He was ranked No. 42 in ESPN's 100 and the Hoosiers hoped the prolific scoring ability he showed as a high school senior (23.9 PPG) would carry over to the college game.

Unfortunately, Hollowell's college career got off to a slow start. He only averaged 2.8 points per game while shooting just 40 percent from the floor and an abysmal 23 percent from the three-point line. 

Most of the time, he looked overwhelmed and played timidly. The once-aggressive scoring machine wasn't playing well and there was definitely some doubt from Hoosier nation swirling around the struggling freshman.

Coming into this season, Hollowell is one of the biggest question marks on the team, but if his early practices and performance at last week's Hoosier Hysteria are any indication of things to come, head coach Tom Crean may have a budding star on his hands.

Before the much-anticipated intrasquad scrimmage at Hoosier Hysteria, a buzz was growing about Hollowell's game.

Although the team hasn't been together very long, Hollowell has made his presence known so far. Crean told Scout.com (subscription required) that the sophomore scored more points in practice than anyone.

Hollowell backed up Crean's words with his play in the scrimmage. He put up 13 points, leading the White Team in scoring. The only Hoosier who scored more was Will Sheehey with 14.

He showed no fear and looked for his shot from the get-go. The Hollowell everyone has been wanting to see finally showed up.

It may only be practice, but Hollowell's play is a great sign for Indiana. This is the perfect time for him to emerge.

The Hoosiers are a young team that lost its top four scorers. Yogi Ferrell and Sheehey are back, but Indiana is going to need to find scoring from someone else to complement them.

It's still early, but it appears Hollowell is on track to be that player.